DonAndres
Wild Man of Borneo
Something else to consider: who will take Del Bosque's place as coach of Spain? It's Pep's if he wants it, and my bet is sooner than later. If not 2014 WC, then 2018 for sure, and Thiago will be in his prime. I'm sure Thiago's realistic about the competition for midfield positions in the Spanish team. It's always going to be ridiculously competitive, and he'd be unlikely to make more than a bench spot in 2014, if at all.
Pep is very pro-Catalan independence, I doubt he'd do international work. He's the kind of guy who requires a lot of time spent with his squad, he can't be as active and imposing of a coach if they only see him once every few months. Same reason why Sacchi didn't like being Italy's coach.
I'm betting Lopetegui will take over, seems like the most logical choice.