Manuel Pellegrini says Real Madrid have to win every game regardless of how well or poor Barcelona do.

Despite a huge outlay on players in the summer, Real have lagged behind Barcelona in La Liga and are out of the Copa del Rey.

Pellegrini has tried to explain his understanding of Real's expectations for every game and it had nothing to do with Barca's success or failures.

"We play based on the obligation of winning our matches," he told RealMadrid.com.

"We are not concerned about Barcelona. Every point counts. We don't feel any pressure from Barcelona and it isn't true that we treat each match as if it was a final."

Pellegrini is also hopeful Real's record signing Cristiano Ronaldo will be cleared to play as the club appeal against his suspension.

"We are waiting to see what the committee has to say. He is a very important player but we have to wait," said the Real coach.

Real will host Espanyol this weekend before traveling to Xerez next.