A Real Madrid clique is being credited for the Spain downfall of Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas.

Spain coach Julen Lopetegui left Cesc out of his latest squad selection this week.

And Don Balon says the decision was made after pressure from senior Real Madrid players fed-up with Barcelona defender Gerard Pique's antics.

Its suggested Cesc was Pique's closest ally inside the Spain squad and Real players wanted to isolate the defender after years of teasing and taunts.

Barca teammates Andres Iniesta, Sergi Busquets, Jordi Alba and Sergi Roberto are also part of Lopetegui's squad, but none are as close to Pique as Cesc.