Iniesta: We've dropped too many points

Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta has insisted the squad are "confident " coach Pep Guardiola will continue at the Nou Camp as speculation continues over his future. Guardiola has always maintained a policy of keeping his options open by signing short-term contracts, insisting he would leave when he felt his project had run its course. He now finds himself facing the prospect of losing out on the La Liga title to rivals Real Madrid for the first time since taking over in 2009, leading to renewed speculation about his plans. However, Iniesta says the squad are confident the boss will not leave. "We don't think that'll happen," Iniesta said. "The most difficult but also the nicest part of the season is now ahead of us. I hope the manager stays with us and we are fighting for everything." Real Madrid appear to have the title all-but won, holding a ten-point lead, but Iniesta insists all is not lost just yet. "They hold a considerable advantage, but our only thoughts are on getting points three by three. That will make us more competitive in the UEFA Champions League and the final of the Copa del Rey. "In the league, if Real Madrid drop any points, we have to be there just in case. We've dropped far too many points this season and that's reflected in the league table," said Iniesta. Barça face an tough trip to Atletico Madrid on Sunday, when they will face a side in resurgent form since Diego Simeone's arrival as coach. And, earlier on Sunday, a few miles away, Realwill be facing city neighbours Rayo Vallecano hoping to at least maintain their lead or even extend it, should Barca slip up. They do so without two key weapons, however, with Angel Di Maria ruled out for a month with a muscular problem and striker Karim Benzema sidelined for two weeks. In-form Athletic Athletic Bilbao are the form team in the top flight after a run of form which has taken them to fourth, however, Argentinian coach Marcelo Bielsa insists it is too early to consider securing a Champions League place. Ahead of Sunday's trip to Villarreal, Bielsa said: "There are too many teams still in competition for [fourth] place. "The team with a group of players who have lasting stability will have the best chance of achieving it. The qualities of the teams seem quite similar, and I have no clear idea who will extend a run to take the place." Bielsa could rest Iker Muniain and Oscar De Marcos, while handing Fernando Amorebieta a return at El Madrigal following last weekend's 3-0 win at home to Malaga. A busy Saturday programme sees Racing Santander at home against Sporting Gijon, Real Betis entertain Getafe, Malaga at home to seemingly doomed Real Zaragoza, who sit rock bottom. Espanyol host Levante in Cornella El Prat. Osasuna are at home to Granada at El Sadar on Sunday, while Real Sociedad host Real Mallorca and Valencia play Sevilla.