Gerardo Martino's Barcelona have endured a near flawless start, amassing 34 points from a possible 36 with a 0-0 draw against Osasuna the only blemish on their record.
A goal from Alexis Sanchez secured victory over city rivals Espanyol last time out, the club’s third successive league win.
Barcelona will be confident of making it four in a row given this weekend’s opponents sit 18th with just nine points to their name.
Diego Simeone's men have bounced back strongly since losing to Espanyol in October, racking up victories over Betis, Granada and Athletic Bilbao.
Marcelino Toral's charges have impressed since gaining promotion from the Segunda Division and lie fourth with 23 points.
Carlo Ancelotti's side have bounced back from losing El Clasico with consecutive triumphs, a 7-3 rout of Sevilla followed by a nervy 3-2 success at Rayo Vallecano.
One problem for Ancelotti could be who to utilise in goal, after Iker Casillas' fine performance in the 2-2 UEFA Champions League draw with Juventus in midweek.
