Fernando Ruiz Hierro (Spanish pronunciation: [ferˈnando ˈʝero]; born 23 March 1968) is a Spanish retired footballer who played as a central defender, sweeper or defensive midfielder, and is the coach of the Spain national team.
He won five La Liga and three Champions League trophies with Real Madrid over the course of 14 years after signing from Valladolid, during which he appeared in more than 500 official games. He also competed professionally in Qatar and England.
Hierro represented Spain on nearly 90 occasions, appearing in four World Cups and two European Championships. He started working as a manager in 2016 with Oviedo, being appointed at the helm of the national team two years later.
Although he had already been in charge for a few weeks, Hierro was officially presented as sporting director of the Royal Spanish Football Federation in late September 2007.He remained four years in the position, being recalled on 27 November 2017.
Hierro was appointed as the manager of Spain on 13 June 2018 after the sacking of Julen Lopetegui two days before their first match at the World Cup, following the latter's decision to join Real Madrid after the tournament.Two days later, he led the team to a 3–۳ group stage draw against Portugal.
Equally at ease as a central defender, sweeper or defensive midfielder, Hierro had the ability, at his peak, to combine solid defensive play with a near-unlimited passing range and surprising goalscoring talent, which made him one of the world's most sought-after players. A large, physically imposing and intimidating defensive presence, he was also known for his positional sense, strength in the air, tenacity and the ability to time his challenges well.