Marcelo has insisted that the Clasico between Real Madrid and Barcelona on March 22 will not prove decisive in the La Liga title race.
Los Blancos have topped the Spanish top light for much of the season, with the Catalans occupying second place, but saw their lead at the summit cut to just two points after they failed to beat Villarreal last weekend.
This has now placed more significance on the upcoming Madrid-Barca duel in three weeks’ time, although not in the eyes of the left-back.
“I’m happy to be back. My objectives are now simple – to win games [with Brazil] and do well,” said Marcelo, who began his interview with O Globo by revealing his delight at returning to the Brazil fold.
“Having the confidence of your Coach helps a lot. In the same way he transmits [this confidence] to us, we try to return it to him.
“We want to show that we’re on his side. He gives us peace of mind for us to do our job [the best we can].
“[The Clasico against Barcelona on March 22] will be a key game, but so will Athletic [Bilbao] and Levante. I don’t think the Clasico is critical to this League.
“[Neymar and I] are friends, but we don’t usually talk about football. When we’re together, we leave that to one side.”
