Similar to the mindset of his players, Manuel Pellegrini’s only goal is to win the last seven matches of the season.

"The season ends on 16 May, so we will try to cut into the lead until the very last match"

Title hopes:

We said before the Clasico that whoever won the match still cannot afford to think they are the champion and that whoever lost cannot believe the league is over. The season ends on 16 May, so we will try to cut into the lead until the very last match.

Morale:

This team is able to pick itself up as it has done in the past. Over the last three days I have seen the players get over the loss and focus on what needs to be done. We cannot afford any setbacks and winning the next seven matches is crucial. It is important to be mentally prepared to snatch the three points against Almeria.

Focus:

The league ends on 16 May, so as long as we are mathematically still alive, we need stay focused and upbeat if we are to continue winning like we did over the twelve previous weeks. We will try to win it all. The best thing we can do is win each match that we play starting tomorrow against Almeria. The hardest match is always the next one, which is the one we must win.

Future:

Right now the least of my concerns is my future. I am not worried about what will happen. We will sit down at the appropriate time to discuss options. Right now is not the time. All we must do now is focus on the next seven matches.