The saga started when the Spanish trio were dropped from a Copa Del Rey game two weeks ago, and the Valencia boss has set the record straight that the players' exit is imminent.

"They are not going to return because it is my decision not to call upon them. I am honorable in the sense that if I say it then there is no other way," he was quoted by Marca.

"Everyone is free to say what they think, but the decision has been taken and I have the backing of the sporting director and the president.

"They can continue training because that is their right according to their contracts, but the best thing for the club and, above all, for them would be for them to seek an exit.

"I do not want to say anything more about this because we have been talking about the same thing for two weeks and I think we should discuss other things."

The former Holland and Barcelona star is planning a major reshuffle for Los Che, who are struggling both domestically and continentally.