Lopetegui was replaced by Spain's sporting director Fernando Hierro after agreeing to take charge of manegerless Real Madrid after the World Cup without notifying the Royal Spanish Football Federation that he was in talks with the club.

But Kroos believes the 2010 winners remain strong contenders under Hierro.

"I don't think that this will greatly affect the Spaniards' chances," said the 28 year-old, who has been at Real since 2014.

"It's clear that losing your head coach two days before the World Cup never feels great. But I know Hierro well, I'm sure he can take the responsibility, he is a good coach. I think he will work well with the national team."

Spain face reigning European champions Portugal in Sochi on Friday, before playing Iran and Morocco in their other two Group B matches.