Barcelona ace Xavi has hinted of fresh tension inside the Spain squad with Real Madrid's players.

Xavi is one of seven Barcelona players in the Spanish squad that heads to Poland this week with five Real players also involved.

He said: "We have congratulated them when they won, that is sport at the end of the say. We have been very respectful with them, however, I have noted that it wasn't the same in reverse."

Xavi also expressed his surprise at the departure of Pep Guardiola and appointment of his assistant Tito Vilanova as manager so soon after the later recovered from a serious illness.

"I was very surprised by Pep leaving, but when he explained it all to us, you understand.

"The naming of Tito also surprised me, more than anything because what had happened with his illness, but looking at the decision, I think it was treated in the best way possible.

"This team has to continue for a few more years winning titles and we don't have to change the form of coaching."