Spanish and European champions Madrid have struggled in the first half of 2017-18 and sit fourth in the table, 11 points behind leaders Barca and five back from second-placed Atletico Madrid.
Earning all three points at the Santiago Bernabeu would be a huge boost to Barca's hopes of reclaiming the domestic crown.
But Valverde, speaking after his team's 4-0 win at home to Deportivo La Coruna on Sunday, talked down the significance of the eagerly anticipated clash.
"I don't think a Clasico victory will give us the title," he told a news conference.
"Atletico are only six points behind.
"What we know is that this is a long competition, nobody will decide anything at this point.
"We're heading into the game happy.
"We have a week of preparation left and are confident.
"It's a tough game against a huge rival, but we're eager to face them."
And the former Athletic Bilbao coach was delighted with the contribution of a player whose inch-perfect pass enabled Lionel Messi to set up Luis Suarez for the opening goal of the game at Camp Nou.
"What can I say? I'm very lucky to be able to count on him in my team," Valverde said.
"Today he started in a different position because of Deportivo's qualities.
"Andres played extremely well in that role."
Valverde adamant Clasico won't decide La Liga
Reviewed by Unknown
on
December 18, 2017
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