The Sunderland boss has suggested the Premier League have two weeks off in January.
"During my time in Spain, we had a two week break," said the former Real Sociedad coach in his programme notes in match-day programme Red & White.
"It allowed players to have one week off and then return to training to prepare for the next game.
"I felt that this was good for the players and a second benefit was that there was an added spell of anticipation for the first fixture after the break.
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"It was only a small interlude but I liked the way in which it enabled players to spend some time with their families.
"With Spain having a high number of players from South America it allowed them yo go home and see the people they are close to.
"My preference would be to have a break here during the first two weeks in January.
"Christmas and New Years games have always been part of our culture and I don't think we should change that.
"I would welcome a break as it would benefit players who have played a lot of games in December, giving them time to recuperate.
"It would also help supporters because we know the festive period can be expensive for families."