Barcelona is not a direct opponent of Real Madrid this season, according to Carlo Ancelotti, because they are too far down the standings.
After 16 games, the Camp Nou side is in seventh place in La Liga, 18 points behind champions Real Madrid.
Despite his team’s troubles this season, Xavi thinks that they are still in contention for the Spanish league crown, but Ancelotti is unconcerned about their Clasico opponents.
When asked about Xavi’s remarks at a news conference on Saturday, Ancelotti stated that Sevilla and Real Betis pose a greater threat than Barcelona.
He noted that, Barca are no longer direct competitors since other teams, like as Sevilla or Betis, are closer.
Ancelotti’s side has gone 13 games without losing in all competitions, winning each of their past ten.
In the Spanish first tier, they are eight points clear of second-placed Sevilla, despite Julen Lopetegui’s side having a game in hand.
Madrid will play Cadiz in La Liga on Sunday, but some players will be absent because to a Covid-19 outbreak among the squad.
Barca, on the other hand, is winless in their previous three competitive matches and recorded a win over Elche on Saturday at Camp Nou.
Due to injuries, Ansu Fati, Pedri, Memphis Depay, and Sergi Roberto are all expected to miss the match, while Gerard Pique is suspended.
