Julen Lopetegui has decided not to continue as head coach of Qatar when his current contract ends in April 2027, according to MARCA.
The decision by the Spanish coach follows the postponement of the Asian Cup to January 2028 due to attacks suffered by Saudi Arabia from Yemen’s Houthi rebels, a socio-political situation in the Middle East that has altered the horizon under which he signed his deal nearly two years ago.
Lopetegui understands that he has covered his cycle in Doha. While he has not yet sat down with the Federation to close the agreement regarding his departure, the choice is a matured one following the World Cup and the Gulf Cup, and was accentuated by the Asian Cup delay.
The sources note that this is neither a hot-headed reaction nor a market strategy, as Lopetegui does not intend to take over any team midway through a season. Following previous proposals after the World Cup that he did not attend to due to his commitment to Qatar, his plan is to take on a high-level project once his contract ends, keeping the 2027-28 season in view.
🚨 #AsianCup2027 scheduled from January 7 to February 5, 2027 is now postponed. The new dates will be December 23, 2027 – January 21, 2028. READ 🔗 https://t.co/T2i7IzRZF5 pic.twitter.com/J7iO8g2FDJ
Currently, the coach’s focus remains on the friendly match against South Korea, which serves as the final fixture of 2026 following the suspension of a December friendly against Saudi Arabia. After that encounter, only the international window matches of March 2027 will remain before his departure. The former Spain coach considers his time in Doha a very positive life and sporting experience.
He arrived in a complicated situation marked by four consecutive defeats and a nearly impossible play-off, ultimately becoming the first manager to qualify Qatar for a World Cup on merit by defeating the United Arab Emirates in a playoff celebrated as a national success, following their 2022 hosting duties.
Reflecting on his career achievements, Lopetegui stated: “La vida me debÃa un Mundial”
He subsequently secured another milestone when a 1-1 draw against Switzerland granted Qatar its first-ever point at a World Cup. In addition, the team reached the semifinals of the Gulf Cup, where they were eliminated on penalties by eventual champions and hosts Saudi Arabia. Yet, with the Asian Cup now postponed, Lopetegui has determined it is time to change course upon the completion of his current agreement.
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