"If we are scared of Madrid after three weeks, it's best we do not play in the Liga," scoffed Deco. "Madrid are a great rival, but the important thing is that Barcelona analyzes its errors and knows how it must work to correct them.

"This is silly. We need more serious analysis. The season is long and we're only three games in."

On the substitution of Ronaldinho, Deco was equally as dismissive: "Look, Ronnie had played two internationals, he was the one who had to fly the furthest to return here and (coach Frank) Rijkaard has to think about the upcoming games and the fitness of his players.

"No-one is untouchable."