Real Madrid defender Fabio Cannavaro accepts Barcelona are a major threat this season.

"They have always had a strong team, but in the last two campaigns gave the impression that they were not a team, which is why we have won two championships," said the Italian.

"This season they're playing as a team. But I have a lot faith in the players of Real Madrid, we have a very strong team."

On Real coach Bernd Schuster, Cannavaro added: "I like him.

"He doesn't speak a lot, but when he does it is direct."