This archive report was first published on 21 November 2019.
On November 20, 2019, Spain coach Robert Moreno announced his departure from the national team, leaving behind a bittersweet feeling. Moreno's exit comes after Luis Enrique was appointed as his replacement for the Euro 2020 tournament.
Moreno's tenure as Spain coach was marked by success, with the team finishing top of their qualifying group after an unbeaten campaign. During his six matches in charge, Spain won four and drew two.
Despite his departure, Moreno expressed gratitude towards his former employers, stating that he had felt loved and respected during his time with the national team. He also praised his successor, Luis Enrique, saying that he wished him all the best and hoped that his joys would be Spain's joys.
Moreno's decision to leave was reportedly due to the way the change was handled, with him refusing to speak to the media after Spain's victory over Malta and reportedly leaving the dressing room in tears. However, in a statement released on November 20, 2019, Moreno avoided criticizing either Luis Enrique or the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).
"If I went into my last few hours or even my last few days, I would only enter into a spiral of reproaches and recriminations. I'm not going to do it. I don't see any point," Moreno said in a statement.
"I have a clear conscience. It's impossible to thank everyone, but I want to say that I sincerely respect everyone and their opinions. I've always been a man of my word, that I wouldn't stand in Luis Enrique's way if he decided to return to coach," he added.
