Del Bosque spares thought for Guardiola

Spain coach Vicente Del Bosque has expressed sympathy for Pep Guardiola following his decision to leave Barcelona at the end of the season.

The 41-year-old coach announced earlier on Friday that he has decided not to prolong his stay at Camp Nou because of the tiring nature of the job, after guiding the club to 13 titles over the last four years.

“Pep has made a decision as a Barcelona man and there is nothing to do but accept what he has done,” Del Bosque told EFE.

“He thinks that this is the best for him and for Barca. I understand him and I wish him the best.”

Guardiola’s assistant Tito Vilanova has been confirmed as Barca’s coach for 2012-13, but Del Bosque refused to comment on the appointment.

“I am no one to get involved with decisions that belong to clubs,” he noted.

Del Bosque also gave his opinion about the Champions League eliminations of Real Madrid and Barcelona, admitting that they damage the Spain national team ahead of this summer’s European Championship.

“I wish both clubs had progressed and played in the final. They deserved it,” the 61-year-old said.

“A return for Fernando Torres? I have time to evaluate his situation and make a decision.

“He is competing against players who have been doing very well, so we will try to be as fair as possible.”