Rafa Benitez is happy with Real are top of the table.

But the coach is playing down their early season success.

“The numbers have been good so far but a race isn't won on the first bend. We'd be making a mistake if we pushed ourselves too hard now in order to improve our numbers. It will all come down to the last ten games. The team are in good spirits, we're full of confidence, and are in good shape to face what we have ahead of us now. But this is only the beginning.

“Being top has a noticeable effect on the atmosphere around the dressing room and that can either be helpful or misleading. Things have gone well for us and we need to be very alert to hold onto our lead, not underestimate opponents and stay focused. Real Madrid and Barcelona are always the favourites because they are two great teams. This is the start of the season and we need to set the foundations so that the team are in good shape heading into the final ten matches. We need to continue getting good results and keeping our spirits high."