Real Madrid sack Lopetegui, appoint Solari but await Conte's arrival
What's the story
It was just a matter of time before Real Madrid hit the final blow on Julen Lopetegui's career as their manager, and now it has finally been done.
They have appointed Santiago Solari, the gaffer of Real Madrid Castilla, as their interim manager, while waiting for Antonio Conte to settle his legal matters with Chelsea.
Julen has been sacked after 14 matches in charge.
Performance
Real's run under Lopetegui
Real Madrid played 14 matches under Julen, losing and winning six each, and drawing the remaining two.
They currently stand ninth in the league table, seven points adrift of table-toppers Barcelona.
Real lost matches against weaker opponents like Levante and Moscow.
They also received a 0-3 thrashing by Sevilla.
Notably, Los Blancos also saw their longest goal drought ever under Julen.
Statement
Excerpts from the Real Madrid's statement
The statement said that the club has decided to terminate Lopetegui's contract to ensure a 'turnaround' in the fortunes of the first team, and still aim for the targets set for the club.
The board wished Julen luck and announced the appointment of Solari as interim manager.
The statement highlighted that there is a big difference between the team's quality and performance this term.
Complications
Real need to appoint Conte within two weeks
Real want to sign Conte, but his legal woes with Chelsea are preventing his immediate appointment.
Royal Spanish Football Federation's rules clearly state that if a club sacks its manager, after the league commences, they need to appoint another, holding a license for the category, within a period of two weeks.
Disciplinary actions might be taken against the club if this is not followed.
Information
Conte's financial dispute: What is the issue?
Reportedly, Conte is currently involved in a €10 million pay dispute with the Blues and until this dispute is resolved and the legal parameters met, the deal between Conte and Los Blancos is facing an impasse.