Fernando Hierro's tenure as interim manager of Spain has ended. Hierro also turned down the chance to return to his former role as sporting director.

Hierro has instead decided to “seek new horizons and undertake new professional challenges”, the RFEF said in a statement. 

Hierro took over as manager after Julen Lopetegui was fired on the eve of the World Cup.

“After walking many kilometres side by side, the Spanish Football Federation and Fernando Hierro have brought their relationship to an end following the conclusion of Spain’s campaign at the World Cup in Russia,” the RFEF said. “The most recent coach of the Spain national team has declined [the opportunity] to return to his previous position as RFEF sporting director and wishes to seek new horizons and undertake new professional challenges.

“The Federation would like to place on record its thanks to Fernando Hierro for his commitment and sense of responsibility, both in taking over the national team in extraordinary circumstances, and in the manner in which he has carried out all his functions at an organisation whose doors will always be open to him. The Federation would also like to highlight the professional and human values shown by an extraordinary sportsman to whom it wishes the best of luck for the future.”