Spain Criticises Pep Guardiola's Bid on Catalonian Independence Electoral Ticket

Spanish Interior Minister Jorge Fernandez Diaz has expressed dismay at German club Bayern Munich's coach Pep Guardiola's decision to run in the Catalan regional elections.

Guardiola wants to take an active part in politics to support Catalonia's demand for independence from Spain.

"One cannot both be Bayern coach and devoted to politics. You either do something or another," the minister said on Tuesday, reports Efe.

The decision to run made by Guardiola, the former coach of Catalan side FC Barcelona, is not patriotic but for material interests, Diaz said, adding that the people who have succeeded with the national Spanish football team are being unmasked as people who worship money.

Guardiola was announced on Monday as the last name added to the joint list of the Democratic Convergence of Catalonia and Republican Left of Catalonia parties, the two blocs known for a secessionist stance on Catalonia.

The coach is also known to support Catalonia's independence, and has participated in several campaigns concerning the issue.