Doha, Qatar — Former Spain and Real Madrid boss Julen Lopetegui has been named the new head coach of the Qatar national team, the country’s football federation announced on Thursday.
“Ready for a new chapter. Welcome Lopetegui. We’re excited to embark on this journey together,” the Qatar Football Association (QFA) posted on social media platform X, along with a video message from the 58-year-old coach stating, “I’m ready.”
Lopetegui replaces fellow Spaniard Luis Garcia and has signed a contract running until 2027, a term that will see him lead Qatar’s defence of their Asian Cup title and their push to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
His first match in charge will be a friendly against Iran on June 5 in Doha.
The appointment marks Lopetegui’s return to coaching after he was dismissed by West Ham United in January following a short stint of just 22 games. A former goalkeeper for Real Madrid and Barcelona, Lopetegui has had a rollercoaster managerial career, including a two-year spell with the Spanish national team where he won 14 of 20 matches before being sacked just days before the 2018 World Cup for agreeing to take the Real Madrid job.
Qatar, who hosted the 2022 World Cup, are now looking to rebuild under Lopetegui’s leadership with a long-term vision toward regional and global success.
