Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is excited ahead of the El Clasico against Barcelona.

Real Madrid go to Barca on Sunday for the first El Clasico of the season.

Courtois said: "The Clasicos are one of the most watched games in the world. You feel when you go to play it, even before you are here. They are games that all the players watch. And we are happy that the fans are back in the stands. That gives a plus to a Clásico. It's going to be a very intense game, with rivalry, clashes on the field ...

"In the end it is going there to the death, to defend yours. Sometimes when heat arises in the game, there may be a clash, but always with the utmost respect, because we are professionals. But that is cool in these games, let there be a little fire."

Asked if he's happy Lionel Messi is no longer with Barca, Courtois added: "No, because we like to face him. It's always cool when you can face the best. I remember a game the first year I arrived that he didn't play and we lost 5-1. I don't want to remember that, but that's the way it is.

"Barça have quality, new young stars: Ansu Fati, Pedri ... It's going to be a great game because they have a lot of quality."