Antic: Some players want to leave Real Madrid

Dec 13, 2012 10:00:00 PM

The former Santiago Bernabeu boss has suggested there are internal frictions in the capital that are affecting performances on the field

Red Star Belgrade coach Radomir Antic believes several Real Madrid players are desperate to leave the club.

The well-travelled tactician, who coached Blancos during the 1991-92 season, revealed that tensions at the Santiago Bernabeu have caused irreparable damage and could result in a number of departures.

"Some want to quit at Madrid, they are not together. It is not easy to get results in such an atmosphere where there are clashes within the group," he told Esports Cope.

During his 25-year coaching career, Antic has also been at the helm of Atletico Madrid and Barcelona, who face one another in La Liga this Sunday.

And the 64-year-old sees the game as a wonderful chance for Diego Simeone's side to stamp their mark on this season's title race.

"This Sunday is a great opportunity against Barca for Atleti. They can search for an identity there. Atleti is a great club, and because of this they have to have personality," he added.

Antic also commented on Barca's record-breaker Lionel Messi and Gerard Pique, who looks to have returned to his best this season.

"He is just doing splendid at this moment, he is a killer. Despite all the praise the comments still fall short," he continued.

"Pique has recovered his best form. One can notice that he is doing well and is smiling again."