Robert Moreno denies using ChatGPT or AI tools to prepare matches or decide line-ups during his time at Russian club Sochi, calling reports false
Former Spain coach Robert Moreno has denied claims that he relied on artificial intelligence tool ChatGPT to prepare matches or make decisions during his tenure at Russian club Sochi.
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Moreno left Sochi in September 2025 following a poor run of results, but recent reports in Russia suggested he had extensively used ChatGPT, even to decide on potential signings.
In an open letter to Spanish newspaper Marca, the 48-year-old insisted: “I have never used ChatGPT or any AI to prepare matches, decide line-ups, or choose players. That is completely false.”
Moreno acknowledged using technology in his coaching but emphasised that all sporting decisions were made by himself and his staff.
“Like any professional coaching staff, we use analysis tools — GPS, Wyscout, video, scouting platforms. Technology helps process information faster, but the sporting decisions are always made by the coaching staff,” he said.
The former Spain and Sochi coach attributed the reports to former club executive Andrei Orlov, with whom he had disagreements.
“My departure was by mutual agreement at a time of inconsistent results and disagreements over sporting planning, as is common in football,” Moreno said.
He also clarified that portraying his exit as being “fired for using ChatGPT” oversimplifies the situation and is untrue.
Moreno’s coaching career includes spells at Monaco, Granada, and the Spanish national team.
He took over Spain temporarily in 2019 after Luis Enrique resigned due to his daughter’s rare bone cancer and was later replaced by Enrique in November 2019 following her death.
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Moreno had accused Enrique of disloyalty for attempting to remain in charge for Euro 2020.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
