Clasico not on our minds, says Mourinho

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has claimed that his team’s sole focus is their Champions League clash with Ajax on Wednesday.

With the Clasico against arch-rivals Barcelona just four days away, Mourinho reiterated his side were fully committed to winning the match in Amsterdam, despite having already qualified for the last 16 of the Chmapions League.

“We are fully focussed on the match against Ajax. The Clasico is not in our heads yet,” said Mourinho.

“It’s always nice to be back in Amsterdam, and playing against Ajax is always special for me.”

Mourinho is expected to rest his key players ahead of this weekend’s El Clasico in La Liga.

The biggest surprise in his matchday squad is the inclusion of 18-year-old Jese Rodriguez.

It is the first time the winger has been named in an official squad, though he did feature for the first team in pre-season matches.

Ajax are also likely to field an under-strength side, with a draw enough to secure Frank de Boer’s side a place in the knockout stages as group runners-up.

However, Mourinho also revealed that a second-string XI should not be expected, after hinting that a number of first-teamers will be on display at the Amsterdam ArenA, and the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday.

“Some players that start tomorrow will also play against Barcelona, but I can’t say how many,” he said.