Maradona: Real Madrid coach Mourinho can turn a coin into a rose, but I'm not in love with him

Al Wasl trainer Diego Maradona has lauded Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho, and feels that the Portuguese is the best in the world.

The Argentine legend also voiced his respect for Barcelona boss Pep Guardiola, but stressed that the Portuguese's ability to create something from nothing makes him stand out from all other coaches.

"I adore Mourinho. As a man, as a trainer and coach and as a psychologist. For me he is the best. Mourinho can turn a coin into a rose and that’s the reason for the big difference on my affection for him. I’m not in love with him or anything, but he is an exceptional guy," Maradona said to Sport360.

"Pep is an excellent man. I know Guardiola very well, but maybe he does not get as much merit because he has impressive players. Let’s not forget though that Pep is very young and has a great career ahead of him."

The former Argentina coach then stated that he thinks Barcelona will give up on La Liga, and focus on the Champions League instead.

"Barcelona will put everything into the Champions League because the Primera Division is Madrid’s. I do not think Barcelona will play anything but the Champions League."

Maradona went on to voice his admiration of the Catalan giants, before taking a dig at goalkeeper Victor Valdes.

"Barcelona are such a great team, even a bad goalkeeper seems good. It’s true. Valdes is bad! But with all the players he has in front of him even he looks good."