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Santi Denia Appointed Czech Republic Head Coach

The Spanish coach’s hire signals a reset for the national team and an immediate test in Nations League A against Croatia, England and Spain.

Paris 2024 Olympics - Spain Men's Football Press Conference - Main Press Centre, Paris, France - August 08, 2024. Spain coach Santi Denia during the press conference. REUTERS/Carlos Perez Gallardo/File Photo
Santi Denia coaching Spain to victory  in the 2024 Olympic gold-medal match

Overview

  • Denia was introduced by Czech FA chief David Trunda on Friday after signing a two-year contract with an option to extend.
  • He replaces Miroslav Koubek, who resigned after the Czech Republic exited the 2026 World Cup following losses to South Korea and Mexico and a draw with South Africa.
  • Denia brings youth and Olympic success, having won Spain’s under-17 and under-19 European titles and leading Spain to Olympic gold in 2024, and he previously played as a centre-back for Atlético Madrid.
  • His first competitive fixtures are Nations League A home matches starting Sept. 26 against Croatia, followed three days later by England, with a group that also includes Spain.
  • The FACR’s choice of its first foreign coach marks a clear break with past practice and could prompt changes in style, player selection, and youth integration as the team seeks to rebuild.