Former Real Madrid GM Jorge Valdano believes Julen Lopetegui's team is struggling due to their summer World Cup commitments.

Lopetegui is fighting for his job after Saturday's dismal defeat to Levante.

"Raphael Varane and Luka Modric are emotionally drained after the World Cup," Valdano said.

"Scoring goals is the most difficult thing in football. And for Real Madrid it is worse because a specialist is missing and this won't be solved by another coach."

But he believes Barcelona are nervous ahead of the El Clasico.

Valdano added: "In Barcelona they are shaking because they are without (Lionel) Messi and they know Real Madrid have heard their little jokes over the exit of Cristiano (Ronaldo)."