The Ecuador national team may have a new manager. The name Robert Moreno has resurfaced as a top candidate to take over after Sebastián Beccacece was sacked on June 30. But the Spanish coach now faces a controversy that won’t go away: claims he used artificial intelligence to set lineups during his time at Sochi FC in Russia. Last result: Mexico 2-0 Ecuador (2026-07-01).

What happened with Robert Moreno in Russia?

In January 2026, reports surfaced that Moreno had been fired from Sochi FC for allegedly using tools like ChatGPT to prepare matches and pick players. The claim sparked memes and backlash online, prompting the coach to post an open letter in Spain’s Marca to deny it. “I have never used ChatGPT or any AI to prepare matches, set lineups, or pick players. That is completely false,” he wrote. He added that his exit from the Russian club in December 2025 came from “sporting differences” and poor results, not tech.

Why does this matter for Ecuador?

The debate over AI in pro football rages on. While tools like ChatGPT can crunch data - from scouting to opponent stats - final calls still rest with the coaching staff. Moreno isn’t alone in facing these claims: the sport is split on how far AI can go in replacing human judgment on group management or in-game tactics.

Ecuador needs a fresh start after a rocky spell: in their last five games, they’ve managed just one win, with three draws and one loss. Last result: Mexico 2-0 Ecuador (2026-07-01). Bringing in a coach with global experience - like Moreno - could steady the ship ahead of World Cup 2026.

What’s next for the national team?

The Ecuadorian Football Federation (FEF) hasn’t named a new manager yet. For now, Moreno stays in the mix, though his Russian chapter casts a shadow. The search could drag on for weeks if they weigh candidates with national-team pedigrees. Ecuador must lock down its first XI fast ahead of their next friendly on August 12.