Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti believes that Asier Illarremendi "played very well" against Barcelona at the weekend.

The Spanish midfielder, who arrived from Real Sociedad in the summer, was part of the side that lost 2-1 in El Clasico on Saturday.

The 23-year-old has enjoyed a low-key start to his career in the Spanish capital, but Ancelotti has insisted that the playmaker is on the right track.

"Illarra played very well against Barcelona because he recovered many balls and made some good passes," Ancelotti told reporters at a press conference.

Illarramendi is yet to gain full recognition for Spain, but has won 16 caps for their Under-21 side.