Luis Enrique: 'Atletico Madrid showdown not crucial in La Liga title race'

Barcelona manager Luis Enrique has said that he believes tomorrow's La Liga showdown with Atletico Madrid will not prove decisive in the title race.

Spain's top two go into the match level on 48 points at the summit, although Barca have a game in hand on Atleti and Real Madrid four points behind.

"It's very tight at the top and I think it will continue being like that," Enrique told reporters. "Any team can make things difficult for you, and there's a lot to play for. [Tomorrow's match] will not be definitive at all.

"[But] they are a direct rival and it's an important game for the league because there's the head-to-head record in play.

"We're hoping to have a good game, create problems through our play and have a packed Camp Nou who are right behind the team."

Barca sit above Atleti in the table due to their better head-to-head record following a come-from-behind 2-1 victory in the reverse at the Vicente Calderon in September.

In fact, Barca have won their last five matches against Diego Simeone's side and avoiding defeat tomorrow would ensure that Barca will finish higher should the two stay level come the end of the season.