Barcelona defender Gerard Pique has insisted that his relationship with coach Tito Vilanova is "phenomenal".

Recent reports have suggested that the duo do not see eye to eye, with the Spanish centre-back calling for "decisions to be taken" following their exit from the Champions League.

"I just said that some decisions should be taken, but I was talking along general lines," ESPN quotes Pique as saying.

"On a personal level for each individual so we could take a step forward and try and be better and work more so that next season we can try and reach Bayern's level. The tie showed they are a step ahead of us.

"I have a phenomenal relationship with Tito. He was my coach when I was 15 years old. I appreciate him a lot and have the highest respect for him as a coach."

Barcelona are currently 11 points clear at the top of the table in La Liga with four rounds of matches remaining.