Vicente del Bosque has seemingly confirmed that he will quit as Spain Coach after the World Cup in Brazil next summer.
The Spanish Football Federation were believed as keen to extend the 62-year-old’s contract beyond its expiry next summer, but today the World Cup and European Championship-winner has indicated that he will not renew.
“My final responsibility as Coach of Spain will be at the World Cup in Brazil,” he is quoted as telling Argentine outlet Telam today.
“Then maybe I can stay tied to the Spanish Football Federation in roles of representation, like now, travelling all over for requests from public welfare agencies.
“The team now head towards the Confederations Cup in Brazil, from the last fortnight of June, and that is our next goal, because as good athletes we should look forward and not stay in the immediate past, even for how successful it has been.”
The tactician was also asked of Spain’s current playing philosophy and if it was too similar to that of Barcelona.
“There is an identity, more than that of Barcelona, because the team has the balance that the players from Real Madrid provide.
“The team is balanced between players from both, plus some that operate in other Leagues, such as the English.
“Changes over the years? While we have had a stable a squad, it is also true that we have renewed 50 per cent of the team since taking over in 2008, i.e. 10 out the 20 players, which is no small thing.”
Barca and Del Bosque’s former club Real Madrid were both hit with heavy defeats in the Champions League semi-final first legs.
“The Germans have learnt of the traditional power of possession, which is what you see now with Bayern and Borussia, and it makes their national team a great candidate to win the next World Cup.
“Cycles are fulfilled and football is evened out worldwide. That is why Finland made things complicated for us [in March’s 1-1 World Cup qualifying draw.”
Del Bosque was asked of Argentina’s chances at the World Cup and who else, beyond the Germans, he felt would be contenders at next year’s tournament.
“Argentina have a great selection of forwards, in addition to a player like Lionel Messi, who can upset any defence.
“I am an admirer of Brazilian football, always. They are going to become major contenders playing at home. Today, you cannot assess their true level simply because they are playing no qualifiers, only friendlies.
“But I am also attentive of Argentina because they have brought so much to Spanish football, they have an innate winning spirit that is not recognised in a European player.”
