Real Madrid Sack Lopetegui As Conte Waits To Take Over As Manager

Julen Lopetegui has paid tribute to the Real Madrid fans in the wake of his dismissal as manager on Monday.

The 52-year-old was officially dismissed following the 5-1 Clasico demolition at the hands of Barcelona on Sunday, although there were reports the decision had been made after they lost 2-1 to Levante last weekend.

Madrid’s statement to confirm Lopetegui’s exit read, “There is a great disproportion between the quality of the squad, which has eight players nominated for the Ballon d’Or, and the results obtained so far [this season] ”.

Lopetegui refused to hit back at the Madrid board and instead thanked everyone associated with the club.

“After the decision taken by the Real Madrid board of directors, I want to thank the club for the opportunity they gave me,” he said. “Thank you to the players for their effort and their work, as well as to each and every one of the club’s employees, for their good treatment during this time. And, of course my gratitude to the fans for their backing. I send them my best wishes for the rest of the season.”