Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has given coach Rafa Benitez a very public vote of confidence.

Florentino called a media conference last night after Saturday's home humiliation by Barcelona.

“I called this press conference to announce that the Board met this afternoon to analyze the team's situation and to communicate that we have complete faith and confidence in Rafa Benítez. Benítez was chosen for his professionalism, career success and experience and he's capable of moving this team forward," the president stated.

“I understand the fan's anger after the match on Saturday, but we need to have unity. Rafa Benítez has only just begun, we have to let him do his work and believe that the victories will come. We're through in the Champions League and up until these last two Liga (against Sevilla and Barcelona) matches we were top of the league.

“We are convinced that we have a great squad and sure that they are going to bring us a lot of joy. I ask that everyone gets behind the technical team and the players."