Real Madrid began the current season slowly with their loss of the Spanish Super Cup to Atlético Madrid and two straight defeats in La Liga, but Carlo Ancelotti says his team is in better shape than last season.

“This year we are clear on the key aspects of our play, though we can’t always play at our peak level. The only problem is that we have conceded more goals than normal, but in terms of our play we’re better than last year," said Ancelotti.

“We had some difficulties at the beginning because August was difficult, as there were players coming back from the World Cup and they did not have time to prepare.

“Now we’ve had time to prepare and the team is in good shape, motivated and up for it.”

Ancelotti insists Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema are the best attacking trio in the world and an improved defensive balance has helped Real Madrid get back on track.

“It isn’t easy to score so many goals, but these players have incredible quality in terms of scoring goals and attacking well. It’s always a collective effort, but the quality of the three up front is unique in the world.

“Our defensive level has improved in recent games because the players are in better physical shape and can work harder in defense.

“After changing two very important players in this respect, they are getting more used to defending and holding a better position.”