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Julen Lopetegui was never a fan of Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas, as the midfield maestro was barely given a chance under Lopetegui’s reign as Spanish head coach.

Lopetegui was sacked by the Spain board on Wednesday after they were infuriated with his decision to accept an offer from Real Madrid just days before the tournament.

Fabregas was omitted from Spain’s 23-man squad for the World Cup and has since taken a role as a pundit with the BBC for the tournament in Russia. However, he was quick to joke that he might get a call-up now that Lopetegui has gone.

BBC presenter Gary Lineker sent a message to Fabregas, saying: “Ah well, will give @cesc4official to talk about on his punditry debut.”

Fabregas jokingly replied: “Wait, maybe I get a call up now!”