Karanka, who led Boro to promotion from the Championship during his three-and-a-half years in charge at the Riverside, will be responsible for overseeing both the senior Spain national team and the various representative levels within the Spanish Federation’s youth set-up.
He will work closely with Spain boss Luis de la Fuente in the build-up to next year’s World Cup finals in North America, having spent the last few years as a senior technical advisor with UEFA.
“I left here several years ago, but I’ve always considered this my home,” said Karanka, who worked alongside Jose Mourinho at Real Madrid prior to taking over at Middlesbrough in November 2013.
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“Returning and seeing familiar faces now in important positions is a joy. I am eager to work and contribute. It’s a privilege.”
Karanka managed at Nottingham Forest and Birmingham after leaving Teesside, and has also led Granada and Maccabi Tel Aviv during his club-management career.
“Aitor, this was your home and now it is again,” said Spanish Football Federation president Rafael Louzan. “You are taking on new responsibilities, and you are the right person for this role because I am confident you will work very well with Luis.
“Your contribution will bring stability and greatly assist with the youth national teams. We are adding to this great project that represents the national team and the home of Spanish football.”
