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The 62-year-old values his veteran's conflicting views highly, insisting it to be a sign of strength from the midfielder

Spain coach Vicente del Bosque has played down the differences in opinion shared with midfield star Xavi ahead of Sunday's match against Nigeria.

The Barcelona playmaker was believed to be disgruntled with his trainer's decision to rotate the squad for encounters with Uruguay and Tahiti.

But Del Bosque insists Xavi did not overstep his authority, declaring he was not at odds with the 33-year-old.

"Unanimity is impossible and it’s quite normal for someone to object or disagree with what we do," Del Bosque highlighted to Onda Cero.

"We had made certain plans for the Uruguay game, so we have nothing to worry about.

"Regarding Xavi, we have spoken with him and we have had some disagreements, but he has never named names. It’s not a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of strength.

"The person in charge should have the humility to listen to others."

Del Bosque's words were in line with his assistant Jose Grande's, who earlier told Diario de La Roja: "He [Xavi] has never used his authority at the expense of another player.

"As one of the high-ranking members of the squad, he is able to suggest preferences for certain systems or a way of playing but he has always been respectful.

"As a player, he is always worried about these kinds of things and has a keen interest in tactics. He would never single out any one player to their detriment."

Victor Valdes will be confirmed between the posts ahead of Iker Casillas in Spain's final Confederations Cup group match, but Grande has reiterated his faith in the Madrid skipper.

"Iker has achieved everything there is to achieve in football. Despite his limited number of playing time, an expert player like him is good enough for us," he concluded.

"He is going to continue guarding the goal with the same confidence as he always has done. What he has been through has only made him stronger."


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