Madrid's meltdown gives Barça a route to the title

Real Madrid boss, José Mourinho, could be the unlikeliest source of Barcelona's hope in retaining their league title. Spanish newspaper Marca recently obtained access to a Real Madrid training session, more importantly a training session in which Mourinho and Sergio Ramos exchanged insults in a war of words.

The newspaper ran the transcript of the argument not only between Mourinho and Ramos but also club captain Casillas. Heavy words were thrown between both parties and it all stemmed from the marking of Carles Puyol. Or the lack of marking in Mourinho's opinion.

Ramos explained that he and Pepe made the decision to switch defensive duties because Gerard Piqué was looking the most dangerous so Ramos should mark him instead of Puyol, who Pepe will now pick up. Mourinho reacted angrily at this asking Ramos "So you're the manager as well now then?" This question caused Ramos to also react angrily explaining “Depending on the match situation, sometimes it’s necessary to change the marking,” he said. “And as you have never been a [professional] player, you wouldn’t know that this is sometimes necessary.”

This chippy response prompted the newspaper to claim the Madrid team was falling out with the "Special One." Judging from Sunday's game against Atheltic Bilbao some of the fans have also turned against Mourinho, who was continually whistled even after his side lead by four goals to one.

All of this will be very positive signs for Pep Guardiola and the Barcelona players. Being only five points ahead and with a Clásico left to play, Madrid can not afford to lose sight of the title and crumble under the pressure. Madrid have rarely been away from controversy but Mourinho will be ruing the timing of this particular event. As we begin the second phase of the campaign any point lead is crucial, especially as the business end of the Champions League starts to pick up.

Both managers will need their best players available to them. This doesn't seem to be a problem for Guardiola but the Madrid players' commitment will be a cause of concern for Mourinho. He will have to act quickly if he is to diffuse the situation in time to save his season. A step which requires him to drop the stubborn attitude and allow his players to contribute as well.

For the Catalans though, the situation looks very positive. Messi continues to amaze and score goals, key players such as Xavi and Iniesta are fit and most importantly the team remains confident that the trophy will take up it's place in the Camp Nou's trophy room.