Real Madrid are above rivals Barcelona in LaLiga for the first time in 818 days

Real Madrid began their season with victory after defeating Celta Vigo 3-1 at Balaidos, in turn quietening the unrest which has surrounding club of late.

The result was also a morale boost, as it ensured Real Madrid are above their rivals Barcelona in LaLiga Santander for the first time in 818 days.

The last time Los Blancos were above champions was at the end of the 2016/17 season in which they finished first.

Since then, the side have only matched Barcelona's points tally during a LaLiga Santander season but have never edged in front.

In last year's competition, the found themselves 19 points behind the Catalan team at one stage, the biggest gap between the sides in history.

The next LaLiga Santander fixture for Real Madrid is at home against Real Valladolid, while Barcelona welcome Real Betis to the Camp Nou.