Mourinho denies squad conflict

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has insisted that he has not created divisions within his squad.

Mourinho – speaking ahead of his side’s Copa del Rey quarter-final second leg on Wednesday – dismissed the notion he had incited clans at the Bernabeu, which were allegedly caused by reports the Portuguese boss was departing at season’s end.

Punto Pelota reported on Sunday that the Portuguese trainer would vacate his post in June, and goalkeeper Iker Casillas was the mole who leaked the story which allegedly saw team-mate Sergio Ramos participate in a bust-up with the coach in training.

However, Mourinho appeared to rubbish the story, claiming that the board have shown him their backing and the team is devoid of any fractious relationships.

“I do not provoke clans. I know nothing about the leaks. I feel very supported by the board, we’re currently in the midst of a very good spell,” Mourinho said.

Mourinho admitted defender Pepe will start the match if he is given the green light to feature, despite choosing to remain coy on the rest of his selections.

“If Pepe is fit, then he will play. There are question marks over him, Granero and Lass, all whom are having some troubles, but tomorrow we will train and I will decide whether they are able to play,” Mourinho said.

“I have no idea about my starting XI yet. I have many decisions to make over certain players, so many questions are still unanswered. As in the first game, I had doubts until the end, and the same will happen tomorrow.”

“I will not answer (any question related to what team I will pick). I’m the coach and I do not have to explain what approach I choose publicly.”

Mourinho also stated that he will not alter his approach regardless of what players turn out for Barcelona, who are taking a 2-1 advantage into their second-leg clash.

“I think my team has a chance to play the semi-finals, so we will try our best,” Mourinho said.

“But we know against our opponent we lost 2-1 the first time, so there is also a chance we won’t make it.”

“Barcelona changing their squad around does not change much for me (in terms of preparation). They have their game and their principles, even though the players can change.”