Roberto Martinez
Belgium s appointment of Martinez is beginning to look like a masterstroke. His stock plummeted with an underwhelming stint at Everton that culminated in his sacking in May 2016, but a swift transition to the international arena has turned from bewildering to brilliant at the World Cup. With a quarter-final victory over Brazil now on his resume, Martinez could leapfrog the queue by leading the Red Devils to glory.
Quique Sanchez Flores
Flores immediately emerged as one of the leading contenders following Lopetegui s removal. His reputation in the eyes of the RFEF appears uncoloured by an underwhelming stint in charge of Espanyol, who dismissed him in April. Indeed, the fact that the ex-Valencia and Watford boss is a free agent could enhance his prospects. Guiding Atletico Madrid to the Europa League title in 2010 remains his greatest achievement.
Luis Enrique
Another who would not need to be released from a contract, Luis Enrique has yet to find a new home more than 12 months after calling time on a successful three seasons at Barcelona. Though he won nine trophies at Camp Nou, the 48-year-old s often tense relationship with the Barca board – and Lionel Messi – may be counted against him by an organisation eager to smooth over recent instability. Luis Enrique, though, is the biggest name among the likely contenders.
Michel
Capped 66 times by Spain during a long career with Real Madrid, Michel appears a safe pair of hands and reportedly has the backing of the players. His past two coaching appointments, at Marseille and Malaga, ended in failure, although a hat-trick of titles with Olympiacos adds some lustre to the CV. He knows what the national team set-up is about and should have the fans onside courtesy of his seven-year playing service with La Roja.
