Keita questions Real's rivals

Barcelona midfielder Seydou Keita believes too many teams in Spain give an easy ride to Real Madrid.

He claims a number of teams take their foot off the gas when facing the capital club, allowing them a stroll towards three points.

Keita was speaking in the wake of Real's 3-2 derby win over Atletico Madrid on Sunday, during which they scored three goals in 13 second half minutes.

That win helped to take Manuel Pellegrini's side back to the Primera Liga summit, on goal difference, and Keita has questioned the effort put in by many of Real's rivals over the course of the 2009/10 campaign.

"I didn't watch it (the derby) because I knew Real Madrid were going to win," said Keita.

"I don't know if opponents give 100 per cent against Madrid."

Opinion

He added: "It's only a personal opinion. Madrid players may also think the same about teams who play us because Barca always seem to win."

Keita has further strengthened his argument by reflecting on comments made by Getafe boss Michel ahead of their 4-2 defeat to Real last Thursday.

A former Santiago Bernabeu favourite, he caused consternation among the Barca camp by offering his support to his former employers in the Spanish title race.

"The Getafe coach said he would like to see Madrid win the title, and if you say this the day before you play, it's not normal," added Mali international Keita.

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