Real Madrid are as good as Barcelona, says Zinedine Zidane

The World Cup winner has described Jose Mourinho as the best in the world at his job, while praise was reserved for the team, who are presently out-pacing the Spanish champions

Zinedine Zidane believes this is Real Madrid's year to finally break Barcelona's dominance as he believes Jose Mourinho's men are now better than their Catalan rivals.

Madrid currently lead the Primera Division table, three points ahead of their eternal rivals from Camp Nou.

Mourinho's men sat back last term as Barcelona scooped the Spanish title and the Champions League while los Blancos settled for the Copa del Rey.

But, the former France international and ex-Bernabeu star said things will be different this term.

"The gap between Madrid and Barcelona has been cut. There is a big difference compared to last season," Zidane told Canal Plus.

"I think we are at the same level, if not better, than Barcelona."

Turning the focus to coach Jose Mourinho, Zidane praised the Portuguese's work-rate.

"Mourinho is the best and I have learned so much from him. When you are a player you don't realise the importance of a coach, now I am realising," concluded Zidane.

Madrid will get to test themselves against Barcelona in December in the first Classico of the Liga season.