Cruyff crowns Spanish best

As the latest instalment of the El Clasico draws near, Johan Cruyff has claimed that Barcelona and Real Madrid are the two best sides in Europe.

The teams meet on December 10, with Madrid currently three points clear of their Catalan rivals at the top of La Liga.

The two clubs last met in August when Barcelona were 5-4 aggregate winners in the Spanish Supercopa, and the former Barca boss was unable to choose a favourite for next month’s meeting.

“The outcome is unknown. What we do know is that the two teams are the best in Europe,” the Dutchman told Mundo Deportivo.

Cruyff was then keen to show support towards Barcelona’s assistant coach Tito Vilanova, who has recently undergone surgery to remove a tumour from his parotid gland.

“The advantage he has is that he is physically very strong. He is recovering, this is an important detail. He has the support of many around him because he is a nice guy,” he added.

Barcelona return to La Liga action on Saturday when they visit Getafe.