According to reports, Julen Lopetegui is likely to take charge of the Qatar national football team soon. The Qatar Football Federation has reportedly made an official offer to the 58-year-old coach, and sources close to him indicate that a final agreement is very close.

Lopetegui, who has previously coached Spain, Real Madrid, Sevilla, Wolverhampton, and most recently West Ham, has been without a team since January 2025.

His coaching style, particularly his ability to work with young players and build cohesive teams, is one of the main reasons for Qatar’s interest in him. These qualities align well with Qatar’s football development policies and long-term plans for the Aspire Academy, which has played a key role in nurturing the next generation of Qatari footballers.

The Qatar national team is currently in a critical phase of World Cup qualifiers and will face Iran in their next match. Qatar, with 10 points from 8 matches in the third round of Asian World Cup qualifiers, sits fourth in Group A and needs victories against Iran and Uzbekistan to advance.

In recent years, Qatar has elevated its status in Asian football by winning two AFC Asian Cups and hosting the 2022 World Cup. Now, it seeks to solidify its position on the global stage.

If finalized, Lopetegui’s appointment could mark a turning point for Qatari football, which aims to become an emerging power in Asian football through heavy investment, infrastructure development, and high-profile signings.