The Santiago Bernabeu side currently have to settle for third spot in the league table while city rivals Atletico Madrid sit second in the standings after 12 games.

Nevertheless, Aragones feels it is unlikely Atletico will be able to fight for the title right until the end of the season.

"Atletico have surprised me and I would like it if they could turn La Liga into a three-horse race," the 74-year-old told AS. "However, it remains a two-horse race for now."

Aragones made over 350 official appearances for Atletico during his playing career, and coached them during four different spells.