Butragueno: Right time for Barca showdown

Real Madrid director Emilio Butragueno believes the upcoming Clasico against Barcelona comes at the perfect time for the La Liga leaders.

Real are three points ahead of Barca in the Primera Division table and equalled a club record of 15 consecutive victories with Wednesday’s Champions League win over Ajax.

Butragueno wants the side to keep up their fine form against the Catalans on Saturday at the Santiago Bernabeu.

“Obviously, winning is what everybody at Madrid wants. However, it won’t be an easy game as Barcelona are a great team,” Butragueno told EFE.

“We are going through an excellent period though and have plenty of options.”

“We have made considerable progress and Saturday’s match is the perfect test for us to see where we stand.”

“Last year’s events haven’t damaged the relationship between Real Madrid and Barcelona. Both presidents get along very well.”