Spain enquired about loaning Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez for the World Cup, ITV reports.
The Spanish Football Association reportedly contacted Newcastle after they sacked manager Julen Lopetegui the day before the tournament kicked off.
Lopetegui was sacked after announcing that he was to join Real Madrid after the tournament and replace the departin Zinedine Zidane.
Fernando Hierro was quickly appointed as Lopetegui’s temporary successor, with talks for Benitez having never gone beyond the initial enquiry stage.
Spain were kicked out in the last 16 by hosts Russia after a poor campaign. Luis Enrique, the former Barcelona manager, has since been appointed the manager of Spain on a two-year deal.
Newcastle boss Benitez has previously stated that the Spanish national job would one day appeal to him, but at present he is enjoying his time with Newcastle and sees his long term future with the club.
Benitez was asked about the approach from the Spanish Football Association for him before the World.
“There was maybe a chance, but still I am here and I am happy to be here. There was a chance. There were rumours about that.”
