Real Madrid Face Espanyol Test as Bellingham Returns
Real Madrid are back in La Liga action this weekend, and the spotlight is firmly on their clash with Espanyol at the Santiago Bernabéu. After a flawless start to the new campaign, Xabi Alonso’s side are heading into this match with confidence, though injuries and suspensions have left them with plenty to think about.
The league leaders have won all four of their opening games, showing both dominance and resilience. That momentum carried over into midweek Champions League play, where Kylian Mbappé’s coolness from the penalty spot earned Madrid a 2–1 victory over Marseille. Still, Espanyol should not be underestimated. They have also enjoyed a strong start, remaining unbeaten and sitting just behind Barcelona in the standings. With 10 points from their first four matches, they arrive in Madrid believing they can cause problems.
Team news has been a major talking point. Alonso’s back line has been hit hard. Trent Alexander-Arnold, who had only just arrived at the club, is sidelined for six weeks with a hamstring issue after being forced off early against Marseille. Antonio Rüdiger is out for the long term, Ferland Mendy is still unavailable, and young defender Dean Huijsen will serve a suspension. Madrid have appealed his controversial red card against Real Sociedad, which La Liga later admitted was an officiating error, but for now Alonso has to plan without him.
Also Read:- Neuer’s Future at Bayern Puts Kompany in a Tough Spot
- Taylor Swift Brings ‘Showgirl’ Release Party to Movie Theaters
The positive news is that Jude Bellingham, who recently underwent shoulder surgery, is expected to return sooner than anyone anticipated. His availability gives Madrid a huge boost in midfield, especially if Aurélien Tchouaméni is asked to drop into defense to cover the gaps. Bellingham’s energy and creativity could be vital in breaking down Espanyol’s compact setup.
Predictions for the lineup suggest a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Thibaut Courtois in goal and a reshuffled defense likely including Dani Carvajal, Tchouaméni, Éder Militão, and Carreras. Midfield should feature Federico Valverde alongside Bellingham, while youngsters like Mastantuono and Arda Güler may join VinÃcius Júnior in supporting Mbappé up front.
Espanyol, on the other hand, will also have to make a change. Their top scorer Pere Milla is suspended after receiving a red card in their win over Mallorca. Veteran striker Kike GarcÃa is expected to step in, having already made an impact from the penalty spot last time out. Other than that, coach Manolo González will likely stick with the same structure that has served them well in this unbeaten start.
The game is scheduled for Saturday, September 20, with kickoff set for 4:15 p.m. local time in Madrid. All eyes will be on how Alonso navigates his defensive crisis, how quickly Bellingham can settle back in, and whether Espanyol can keep up their early-season momentum against the champions.
It feels like one of those matches where Madrid’s depth will be tested, but also one where stars like Mbappé and VinÃcius could make the difference. Fans can expect drama, intensity, and perhaps a glimpse of how Alonso’s team handles adversity in their push for another league crown.
Read More:
0 Comments