Guardiola replaces Frank Rijkaard as Barcelona coach in the summer.
“I cannot deny that I like Guardiola’s style a lot. Not just for the football, but also for the way he interacts with the referees and the opposition. He is a highly respected man and that is translated onto the squad,” said del Bosque to Barcelona-based daily Sport.
He continued: “Barça had a lot of wonderful years under Rijkaard and the club must be grateful for what he did because the team at present benefited a lot from all his good work.
“Sure, the squad’s competitive level dropped a little in his last few years but they have now rediscovered their spirit and their motivation.”
Del Bosque also took time to praise Andres Iniesta, who is out for around two months with an injury.
He said: “Iniesta is a complete player. He can play in the centre of midfield, down the flanks, or just behind the forwards.
“He also has the humility to adapt himself to the needs of the team that he is playing for. He is very down to earth and that is important for any squad.”
