Carlo Ancelotti rates Barcelona's trophy chances in 2023/24

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti says he expects Clasico rivals Barcelona to "fight for all the titles" despite the Catalan giants' mixed season so far.

Despite adding stars like Ilkay Gundogan, Joao Felix and Joao Felix to their squad during the summer transfer window, Barca are seven points behind La Liga leaders Real Madrid and second-placed Girona ahead of their Copa del Rey clash with Barbastro on Sunday night.

The Catalan giants are also through to the last 16 in the Champions League, though lost group-stage games to Shakhtar Donetsk and Royal Antwerp.

Ancelotti, who watched his side overcome fourth-tier outfit Arandina on Saturday evening, told reporters he expects a strong Barca in the second half of the season.

He said: "I think Barcelona are doing well. They are in the fight for La Liga, the Champions League, the Super Cup and the Copa del Rey. I don't like to evaluate others, but I'm sure they will fight for all the titles."

Asked if his side are favourites for the upcoming Supercopa de Espana, Ancelotti added: "I don't know about favourites. It's a short competition. We are close to winning it, but it is also short for the rest. We are confident. The physio's room is empty apart from Lucas Vazquez and that's a good sign."

Madrid and Barca have been kept apart in the draw for Spain's Supercopa, with Los Blancos taking on Atletico Madrid and the La Liga champions facing Osasuna.

The legendary Italian manager previously defended Xavi from growing criticism from the Spanish press, labelling the former midfielder "a great coach".

Barca triumphed in last season's Supercopa de Espana, besting Real Betis in extra-time before beating Madrid 3-1 at the King Fahd International Stadium in Riyadh thanks to goals from Gavi, Robert Lewandowski and Pedri.

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