Barcelona left-back Jordi Alba has told reporters that he “always wants Real Madrid to lose” and that they could slip up in La Liga this week.
Carlo Ancelotti’s team face Sevilla and Atletico Madrid within four days of each other and Alba thinks it could re-open the title race, with Madrid currently a point clear of Barca at the top and having a game in hand.
“As a Cule I always want Real Madrid to lose but I prefer to concentrate on Barcelona, which is what matters most.
“We need to win all our games if we want to try and catch up, which is almost impossible,” explained the Spain international, who also spoke out in support of teammate Neymar following criticism of the Brazilian’s antics during the Copa del Rey defeat of Atletico Madrid.
“Neymar likes to play football and never intentionally shows anyone disrespect. He’s a humble and down to earth type of guy who doesn’t kick or insult people.
“He enjoys his football and likes to play that way. Anyone who knows him will understand this.”
Alba went on to say that Jeremy Mathieu’ recent admission of a bust-up between Lionel Messi and boss Luis Enrique has been consigned to the past.
“It’s been forgotten about and everything is fine. We have a fantastic atmosphere within the team,” he claimed.