Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic insists they won't be underestimating Real Madrid.

Rakitic doesn't believe Real will be weaker without Cristiano Ronaldo after his departure for Juventus.

"Everyone believes that since Cristiano left Real, it will be easier to beat them," pondered Rakitic.

"But Real Madrid is still Real Madrid, with Cristiano or without Cristiano. They will play differently, but Madrid has a fantastic team."

Both Barca and Real boast 100 per cent records from the opening three games of the season.