Spain great Xavi criticised the timing of Julen Lopetegui being announced as Real Madrid coach.

Lopetegui was stunningly sacked as Spain boss Wednesday, a day after it was revealed he would be Zinedine Zidane’s successor at Madrid.

Xavi, a 133-time Spain international, was unhappy with the timing of Madrid’s announcement.

READ: Spain need spirit to survive Lopetegui chaos – Ramos

‘I am not the person to talk about it [Lopetegui joining Madrid],’ the Barcelona great told Radio Marca.

‘It was not the most ideal or opportune moment.’

READ MORE: Have Spain made a mistake sacking Lopetegui?

Lopetegui’s sacking came just two days before Spain’s opening game against Portugal in Sochi.

But Xavi believes the nation, who will be led by Fernando Hierro, can still have a strong World Cup.

‘You never know, the players have already seen it all and sure, they can play a good role at the World Cup,’ he said.

READ MORE: Silva still wary despite Lopetegui departure

‘Leadership will not be missing, there is [Sergio] Ramos, [Gerard] Pique, [Andres] Iniesta.

‘There are very prepared people and a very good atmosphere. It’s not the best situation but at the same time, it unites them more and they give more of themselves, you never know.’