Big two rivalry worries Del Bosque

Spain boss Vicente del Bosque admits Barcelona and Real Madrid’s rivalry has left a negative mark on the national team.

The two La Liga giants were involved in a number of spiteful clashes last season, including a UEFA Champions League tie that led to Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho being suspended, while defender Pepe and Barcelona reserve goalkeeper Jose Pinto were sent off.

Del Bosque, who has been in charge of the world champions since 2008, said he had work to do if he was to restore the good feeling among the squad.

“We will have to heal the wounds as soon as possible. The clashes have left their mark because there are people who use the Madrid-Barcelona rivalry to divide and disengage,” he told La Vanguardia.

“We will look for solutions, without abusing diplomacy. I hope all this mess with so many matches does not contaminate us too much because it would be a serious mistake.”

“During a competition there sometimes is friction but you should never lose respect. If we want to be champions, if we want to continue on the path to success, we need to maintain a good atmosphere.”

Of the 11 who started Spain’s 2010 World Cup final win over the Netherlands, only Villarreal left-Joan Capdevilla does not play for Barcelona or Real Madrid.

Barcelona pipped their rivals by four points to claim the La Liga crown, while they also defeated Manchester United in the final of the Champions League.

Spain’s next international fixture is a friendly against Italy in Bari on August 10.