Real Madrid boss Rafa Benitez ‘sensational’ team despite late collapse which

But numerous powerhouse’s fans are questioning the manager just three months into his tenure after Barcelona routed Madrid 4-0 at the Santiagao Bernabeu last weekend, leaving the humbled hosts in third place and six points adrift of the Catalan club at the top of the table.

The defeat of the Ukrainian outfit ensured that Real progress to the last 16 in the Champions League as Group A winners, a potentially crucial achievement when it comes to the draw.

Meanwhile Juventus joined Manchester City in the Champions League knockout stages by beating Manuel Pellegrini’s men to move top of Group D.

Zidane, however, played down suggestions he could replace Benitez.

Barcelona coach, Luis Enrique has hailed his his side’s 4-0 victory over Real Madrid at the Bernabau in the first leg of the El Classico on Saturday night.

With Madrid in cruise control thanks to Cristiano Ronaldo’s double and goals from Luka Modric and Daniel Carvajal, Shakhtar mounted a late fightback with 13 minutes remaining.

“With the case of Cristiano, we have said many times there is a strategy for him to go to another club next season”, he added. Apart from the coach, some players such as Gareth Bale, Isco, Danilo and Cristiano Ronaldo also need a good display after being criticised for their poor performances against Barcelona.

While Benitez got off to a strong start – Real were unbeaten in their first 10 La Liga matches, winning seven of them – there have been rumours of unrest within the camp. “We showed lots of commitment, it was great work from the players”.

Alexis Sanchez scored twice and Mesut Ozil headed the other goal as never-say-die Arsenal beat Dinamo Zagreb 3-0 on Tuesday and kept alive their hopes of reaching the Champions League last 16 for a 16th straight season.

“We don’t think it’s an attitude problem, but we don’t know the reason. When two teams meet with quality players, sometimes there can be plenty of goals”.

“Rafa’s a good manager, for me, I just have to wonder what his relationship is like with the big players in the dressing room”.

“Perhaps it’s the best moment to play (Madrid) because things are not going well for them”, Eibar midfielder Adrian Gonzalez said.