Santi Denia, a 52-year-old Spaniard and former Spain youth coach, has been appointed as the head coach of the Czech Republic men's national football team. The Football Association of the Czech Republic (FACR) announced the appointment on Friday. [claim:1, claim:2]
Denia, a former Atletico Madrid player and Spanish champion, replaces Miroslav Koubek. Koubek stepped down following the 2026 World Cup, where the team was knocked out in the group stage after one draw and two losses. [claim:5, claim:6, claim:12]
The new head coach has signed a two-year contract which includes an option for an extension. [claim:3]
Managerial background
Denia previously led the Spain Olympic team to a gold medal at the 2024 Paris Games. His coaching history also includes leading the Spain U-17 and U-19 national teams to European championships. [claim:7, claim:13]
Upcoming fixtures
Denia's first matches as head coach are scheduled for September during UEFA Nations League fixtures. The team will face Croatia on the 26th, followed by a match against England in Prague three days later. During this campaign, Denia will face the Spanish national team led by Luis de la Fuente. [claim:8, claim:9]
Duration of Denia's initial contract with the Czech Republic