Real Madrid are set to host Espanyol at the Santiago Bernabéu this Saturday, aiming to maintain their perfect start to the season. Espanyol, meanwhile, arrive in strong form, ready to test the league leaders.

How Both Teams Arrive

Real Madrid, under Xabi Alonso, have won all four of their LaLiga matches so far, sitting top of the table with 12 points. Their most recent domestic victory was a 2-1 win over Real Sociedad, and they also defeated Olympique de Marseille 2-1 in the Champions League, with Kylian Mbappé scoring twice from the spot.
Espanyol have also impressed early in the season, with three wins and one draw, leaving them third in the standings with 10 points. Their run has included big results, such as a win over Atlético de Madrid, showing they are not an easy opponent.

Team News and Key Absences

For Madrid, one of the major absences will be Dean Huijsen, suspended after his red card against Real Sociedad. His appeal was rejected, forcing Xabi Alonso to adjust his back line, possibly using Raúl Asencio alongside Éder Militão.
Trent Alexander-Arnold is also unavailable due to injury, weakening the right flank. Offensively, Kylian Mbappé is expected to lead the line, while youngsters like Arda Güler could play a bigger role.

Espanyol will be without Pere Milla, suspended following a red card last weekend, as well as several other players dealing with muscle injuries. Coach Manolo González will need to shuffle his options to maintain the level that has kept his team near the top of the table.

All the Goals