Real Madrid legend Fernando Hierro will manage the Spanish national team at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

His appointment was revealed by the Spanish Football Federation on Wednesday afternoon shortly after the sack of Julen Lopetegui.

Hierro was Spain’s sporting director until he was appointed as a replacement for the sacked Lopetegui and will take charge of the team for the entire duration of the tournament in Russia.

Lopetegui, 51, was sacked as Spain’s manager on Wednesday morning just one day after he was named the Real Madrid head coach.

The former FC Porto has penned a three-year deal with the European champions.

Hierro’s first game in charge would be the Group B clash with European champions and neighbours Portugal on Saturday in what would be Spain’s first match at the tournament.