Spain coach Del Bosque confirms retirement

Spain's coach Vicente del Bosque. [Photo/Agencies]

MADRID - Spain coach Vicente del Bosque confirmed on Friday that he was stepping down from his position in charge of the country's national team after 8 years.

Speaking on radio station, Cadena Ser in the early hours of the morning, the 65-year-old made public what was already an open secret: that Spain's 2-0 defeat to Italy in the last-16 of the European Championships was also his last game as coach following a spell where he led the Spanish to triumph in the 2010 World Cup and the 2012 European Championships.

"I have no intention of continuing at the helm of the national team," said Del Bosque, who added that Spain would be his last coaching job, although he refused to rule out helping in an advisory role.

"I will not continue in a dugout and I will leave football, although if I can give any help in anything, then I will do so," he said.

The coach admitted he had sent a personal message to all of the players in the Spain squad thanking them for their commitment during the Euros, but he explained there was one exception: goalkeeper Iker Casillas.

Casillas, who has made a record 167 appearances for Spain, was substitute to David de Gea in the tournament, but Del Bosque revealed the veteran keeper had not been happy with the decision.

"He was fine with his team-mates but not with the technical staff. He was perfect with the rest, his anger was with us," he explained.

Del Bosque's decision means the well-travelled Joaquin Caparros is favorite to be named his successor.

"The Federation know I am fully willing to do the job. I will offer happiness, excitement, hard-work and experience, it is a wonderful job for any coach to lead the national team," said Caparros, who has coached sides such as Sevilla, Villarreal, Athletic Club and Deportivo la Coruna.