Following Luis Enrique‘s resignation as head coach on Thursday, a number of Spain players paid tribute to him.
Luis Enrique lost his job as a result of Spain’s shocking elimination from the World Cup round of 16 by Morocco on Tuesday.
As his contract was slated to expire at the conclusion of the competition, the Royal Football Federation said on Thursday that it would not be extending it. Later, it was reported that Luis de la Fuente, who had previously been in charge of Spain’s Under-21 team, would take over.
After the announcement, Luis Enrique’s former players thanked him, with Cesar Azpilicueta posting his congratulations on social media.
“We had all imagined another ending after months of work, passion, dedication and commitment,” Azpilicueta posted on Instagram.
“Thank you very much for the trust, Luis Enrique, and all the coaching staff I wish you the best in the future.”
Dolidos por la eliminación en el Mundial pero convencidos del trabajo hecho.
Gracias por todo mister, siempre agradecido por la confianza que me diste desde el primer momento y todos los consejos que me has dado. Os deseo lo mejor a ti y a tu staff! pic.twitter.com/c4NZSHny6u— Eric Garcia Martret (@ericgm3) December 8, 2022
Luis Enrique gave Gavi his Spain debut last year, making him the youngest player in the history of La Roja at just 17 years and 62 days old.
“I wish you luck and success in the future, you gave everything for the team and we will always be grateful to you!”
Pedri also enjoyed his maiden international outing under the stewardship of Luis Enrique and is one of the young stars that look to have given Spain a promising future, despite the disappointment in Qatar.
“Thank you very much for everything, Luis,” Pedri added on Instagram. “For your trust and support from the very beginning, and for always believing in and caring for this group.
“We haven’t gotten where we wanted in this World Cup, but I’m sure the future will bring you new successes.”