Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti says they go into their clash with Barcelona in good form.

The Catalans have had a disastrous few months, with Lionel Messi's exit being just the tip of the iceberg, and the Italian knows how much the game means.

"They're special matches," Ancelotti told Real Madrid TV. "There are special games in every country, like Inter-[AC] Milan, Chelsea-Tottenham, Bayern [Munich]-[Borussia] Dortmund.

"It's a special match for Spain and the Clasico is the most important game for the fans. It's not a normal game, and my way of preparing for it is with maximum tranquility and maximum focus."

Despite Barcelona's issues, Ancelotti knows that his side will have to be at their very best when they visit the Camp Nou, but he's been impressed in the buildup.

"I like the commitment I've seen from everyone," Ancelotti said. "I'm seeing it every day in training.

"The team is focused. We haven't had a great time, but the players are switched on and fully focused, motivated to train every day.

"We were at our best against Shakhtar [Donetsk]. We did well and we have to continue along these lines."