Barcelona manager Luis Enrique has insisted that he is still "optimistic" about his side's chances this season.

The Spanish giants are three points adrift of fierce rivals Real Madrid at the top of the La Liga table heading into Christmas having also played a game more than Zinedine Zidane's side.

However, Enrique stressed that it is their position at the end of the season which is important as Barca go in search of a third straight title.

"I'm not looking ahead to where we are at Christmas but at the end of the season. From what I see, I'm optimistic," he told reporters.

"We look at playing time every week. Everyone has the same shot at helping the team play better."

Barcelona's final match of 2016 comes against Hercules in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday.