Barcelona playmaker Xavi Hernandez says a win over Real Madrid in El Clasico this Sunday would be 'important but not definitive.'
The Blaugrana go into the game with a 100 per cent record in La Liga and an eight point gap over their capital rivals after just six games.
“There is a lot of League games remaining whatever happens,” the 32-year-old told a Press conference today.
“It would be our seventh straight League win. It would give us confidence to beat an eternal rival, and it's a great opportunity to go 11 points clear, but there is no euphoria. It would be an important step to win, but nothing definitive.”
Xavi is paying no heed to the ructions between Jose Mourinho and Sergio Ramos in the Real camp.
“We are not thinking of the atmosphere in the Madrid dressing room. We have to have the ball, not changing our philosophy of play, avoiding Madrid's attack.”
The movement for Catalan independence is gathering pace but the Spanish international believes politics and the Clasico should stay separate.
“I do not think we should politicise the Clasico. We know the situation that we are living in here in Catalonia, but we are dedicated to playing football. We just want to win, and for people to enjoy the game.”
Xavi then turned to Gerard Pique's battle for fitness before ending with a word on his contract situation.
“Pique is doing everything he can to play. He has been 10 days without training and it's difficult. I've seen him in the gym. I think its 50/50 whether he plays or not.
“My agent is talking to the club, but I would like to retire here. I know that the club is happy with me, and I'm happy here, so I hope there is no problem.”
