Barcelona's Sylvinho: Real Madrid not favourites

Barcelona wing-back Sylvinho insists rivals Real Madrid cannot be considered favourites for this season's title.

"I wouldn't consider Real Madrid as our direct rivals for the championship," the Brazilian told Marca.

"There are at least four other teams capable of winning the title. I do not see Real Madrid as a clear favourite."

Asked about Real's injury problems, Sylvinho added: "To tell the truth, I do not believe that all this influences a season. It is difficult to say what is going to happen within the next eight months."