Vincente del Bosque and Iker Casillas worked together for eight years in the Spanish national team, and another four at Real Madrid.
The pair won everything together – La Liga titles, Champions League, European Championship and the World Cup – and for most of that time Casillas was Del Bosque’s captain.
However, it appears that they have not parted on good terms.
Del Bosque has stepped down from his role as Spain manager following the country’s disappointing exit at the hands of Italy in the last-16 of Euro 2016. The 65-year-old revealed that he has written a “thank you” letter to each member of the Spain squad – except Casillas.
“With his team-mates, he was OK, but with the coaching staff, his behaviour wasn’t good,” Del Bosque said on Spanish radio.
Casillas lost his starting place to Manchester United captain David de Gea before the tournament, and the 35-year-old reportedly took his frustrations out on Del Bosque and his coaching staff.
“His anger was directed at us. That’s why he’s the only player I didn’t write to.”
“For sure he is hurting or displeased with me and I understand that. He thinks we have done the wrong thing,” Del Bosque continued.
“But we have to be proud of a player who has 167 games with the national team. I don’t believe three or four games will hurt his resume.
“Casillas hasn’t disappointed me. I have a great appreciation for him. I have known him since he was nine years old.”
Casillas must have been a difficult presence to piss this man off.
