Real Madrid take on Espanyol for this weekend's La Liga clash as the two sides collide in a crucial match at the RCDE Stadium.
Real Madrid enters the fixture currently sitting second in the table with 74 points. Alvaro Arbeloa's team drew 1-1 against Real Betis in their last outing and will look to secure a crucial advantage away from home against their rivals.
On the other end of the spectrum, Espanyol presents a desperate challenge. The hosts arrive in serious trouble, having picked up just six points from 16 matches since the turn of the year. Currently occupying 12th position in the table with 39 points, Manolo Gonzalez's team will view this clash as their golden opportunity to bounce back and secure vital points on home turf.
Will Kylian Mbappe Play Against Espanyol?
No, Kylian Mbappe
will not play for Real Madrid against Espanyol today. He was ruled out due to a confirmed hamstring injury to his semi-tendinosus muscle sustained against Real Betis. Reports indicate it was a serious injury that could also sideline him for upcoming matches, such as El Clasico, though he is aiming for a return in the coming weeks.
Real Madrid vs Espanyol Team News & Injury Updates
Real Madrid: With Mbappe's absence confirmed, Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa must solve tactical puzzles in the attacking third. Candidates to replace the French superstar include youth team forward Gonzalo GarcÍa or Brahim Diaz. Real Madrid are dealing with significant injury woes, as Rodrygo, Eder Militao, and Arda Guler are all out for the remainder of the season with injuries. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is also sidelined as he recovers from a thigh injury, and Aurelien Tchouameni is listed as a doubt due to a calf issue.
Espanyol: The hosts arrive hoping to secure points for survival but are dealing with massive defensive vulnerabilities. Manolo Gonzalez's side must figure out how to contain Real Madrid's attack with a defense that has conceded 2.00 goals per game on average since the turn of the year.
Real Madrid vs Espanyol Predicted Lineups
Espanyol: Dmitrovic (GK); Romero, Cabrera, Calero, El Hilali; Gonzalez de Zarate, Exposito, Roca, Terrats; Dolan, Kike.
Real Madrid: Lunin (GK); Alexander-Arnold, Rudiger, Huijsen, Mendy; Valverde, Bellingham, Camavinga; Brahim, Gonzalo, Vinicius.
