Real Madrid vs RCD Espanyol: Match preview

Following a rather imperfect performance against VfB Stuttgart, Real Madrid are now preparing to take on RCD Espanyol in their 6th league match of the season.

A full-fledged squad was named for this match with the obvious absences being of the injured Eduardo Camavinga, David Alaba, Brahim Díaz and Dani Ceballos.

Not many changes are expected to be made to the lineup of the previous match. However, Carlo Ancelotti mentioned that Endrick will start in one of the next two games – either Espanyol or Alaves.

The Brazilian striker has been a breath of fresh air when coming on from the bench and may finally be rewarded with his first start at the club.

The most likely player Endrick may replace in the lineup may be Vinicius Junior. Everyone is aware of Vinícius’ capabilities, but the winger has not yet hit the ground running so far. The last two games were below expectations in particular.

Kylian Mbappe has scored 5 goals for Real Madrid so far, but many believe that his best is yet to come. The Frenchman has shown what he can do with the ball at his feet – other than scoring – but the decision-making in the final third could be better.

Speaking of decision-making, Rodrygo is one player who had two very good opportunities to score against Stuttgart but was caught in two minds, that is, whether to take a shot or find a player in open space.

But despite their inefficiencies, the Real Madrid attacking line has managed to bail the team out of trouble and end up scoring.

The main problem ahead of this match is the defence. Barring Antonio Rüdiger, no one has looked convincing. Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao have blown hot and cold, Ferland Mendy is quite reckless, Fran García is shaky at the back and Lucas Vazquez is the most vulnerable.

Carlo Ancelotti has recognised this problem and if anyone can find a solution, it is the Italian manager like he has in the past two seasons. It still remains to be seen how he will line his defence up for the Espanyol game.

With Jude Bellingham and Aurlien Tchouaméni’s return, the midfield looked solid along with Fede Valverde and they will further be boosted with Eduardo Camavinga’s return.

Espanyol, on the other hand, have picked up form by winning their last two league games in a row – both at home. The Catalonian club are a stubborn side and Real Madrid can expect to come up against a ‘park the bus’ formation, which means the men in white will have to work really hard to get through.

Still, the Bernabeu faithful would expect a better show from their team and hope to witness a comfortable victory.