Real Madrid have confirmed that Rafa Benitez will be staying on as manager two days after the club were humiliated 4-0 at home to El Clasico rivals Barcelona.

That had led to intense speculation regarding the future of the former Liverpool boss who replaced Carlo Ancelotti in the summer.

But in a press conference today, the club's president Florentino Perez said that Real have confidence in their current manager.

"Rafael Benitez is the chosen one to bring success to this squad that since January has struggled. Now more than ever he needs the support of all of our followers," he said.

"We have had a board meeting and analysed the sporting situation at Real Madrid. Rafa has all our support and all our confidence."

Real are third in La Liga, six points behind Barca and two behind neighours Atletico Madrid.