Zinedine Zidane Real Madrid Napoli

Zidane: Barcelona are not in crisis

Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane insists rivals Barcelona are not in crisis after a Champions League thrashing by PSG was followed by an unconvincing win over struggling Leganes.

The Catalan giants' hopes of winning the European Cup look over after being beaten 4-0 in the first leg by Unai Emery's men while they struggled to respond at the weekend needing a late penalty to win 2-1.

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However, Zidane has played down talk Barca are struggling, despite huge pressure on Luis Enrique's side following their recent poor form.

"Barcelona in crisis? No, I do not think so," Zidane said in a press conference.

The Madrid boss also took time to address the futures of Isco, Pepe and James Rodriguez, praising all three.

"I understand if Isco is thinking about his future,” Zidane said. “But Isco knows that I count with him, and I like him.

Isco Alarcon Real Madrid Espanyol LaLigaGetty Images

"Pepe is an important player, and he always gives his best when he is playing. I will count with him until the end of the season. After that, I don't know what could happen with his contract.

"I'm happy with James. For what he is doing on the pitch, but also for what he is saying that he wants to stay in Madrid."

Real Madrid take on Valencia on Wednesday and can move four points clear at the top with victory at Mestalla.

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