Robert Moreno issues statement after "bittersweet" end to Spain tenure
Thanking Luis Enrique and the Spanish FA, Moreno said that he did not want to enter into a “spiral of reproaches and justifications” by looking back on the events of the past few days.
Robert Moreno has issued a statement following his dismissal as Spain head coach on Tuesday, in which he thanked Luis Enrique and the Spanish FA and said he looked forward to the challenge of “leading new projects”.
Moreno took charge in March after former coach Luis Enrique stepped down from his position to look after his seriously ill nine-year-old daughter Xana, who eventually passed away in August after a five-month battle with bone cancer.
After leading Spain to Euro 2020 qualification and recording a nine-game unbeaten run (seven wins and two draws), Moreno was relieved of his position to make way for the return of Luis Enrique following La Roja's 5-0 win against Romania on Monday.
And while Moreno had stated on his appointment that he would be willing to step aside if Luis Enrique wanted to return, the 42-year-old coach was still reportedly upset and angered by the decision to let him go before next year’s Euros.
Sources close to Moreno said he felt "used and betrayed" by Luis Enrique and Spanish FA president Luis Rubiales, who announced the decision to reinstate Luis Enrique on Tuesday.
Moreno statement after Spain dismissal
However, Moreno took a reconciliatory tone in his statement, saying he did not want to enter into a “spiral of reproaches and justifications” by looking back on the events of the past few days.
“Faced with an extreme situation like the one we experienced in Malta I had to assume the leadership of the national team. The objective of qualifying [for Euro 2020] entrusted to me has been achieved comfortably,” he said.
“Assessing the last few hours in office or even the last few days would only serve to enter into a spiral of reproaches and justifications for each of the parties. I am not going to do it. I don't see any sense in that.
“I have a clear conscience. It is impossible to please everyone, but I sincerely tell you that I respect everyone and all opinions.
"I have always maintained that I am a man of my word, that I would not be an impediment in the event that Luis Enrique decided to coach again. I have done so even though it has meant my departure. I wish him well because his joys will be ours.
After thanking Luis Enrique, the players and his staff, and the Spanish federation for "the treatment received during my stay in the national team”, Moreno concluded: “My experience as head coach began and ended in the same way, with a bittersweet flavour.
"I have to look forward and face new challenges as a coach in my passion, football. I am prepared to face the challenge of leading new projects.”