Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti is not panicking over their La Liga title defense, insisting that there is still a long way to go despite Barcelona topping the table with five points.

Ancelotti also admitted that Barcelona are doing very well this season, adding that Real Madrid will fight amid the La Liga title challenge.

Real Madrid has struggled for consistency in the league so far this season.

Los Blancos dropped two points on Sunday after playing a goalless draw with Real Sociedad at home.

“We are five points behind; we have to work hard." Barcelona are doing very well, but there’s a long way to go,” Ancelotti told a post-match press conference after Real Madrid’s 0-0 draw with Real Sociedad.

“January has been difficult, but the team is growing back into form and improving." "We will fight,” he added.

Ancelotti’s side are still on course for a potential treble this season to defend their La Liga and Champions League titles alongside a Copa del Rey semi-final.