Manuel Pellegrini has confirmed that Raul is in consideration to start against bitter rivals Real Madrid on Saturday.

The Real Madrid coach also said that Guti will not be playing, but it is not due to any rule breach by the veteran playmaker.

"There is no problem with Raul, before he played a lot more and now he comes in from the bench. His form makes him an option to start. There are no doubts about him," he told reporters.

Guti has not played for Los Merengues since his alleged half-time spat with the Chilean coach during the 4-0 loss to Alcorcon in the Copa del Rey. Pellegrini is adamant that he was not punishing his midfielder.

"There's no physical problem [with Guti]. Simply, this time I have not opted for him, but he has received no punishment," Pellegrini stated.

"I hope he regains his best level because he was very committed and is a very important player, but in my opinion, he has declined in relative terms."

"When I see the level I will summon him again. There was no fight, nor is he punished. He didn't insult me, but even though I keep saying it people keep saying I'm lying."