REAL MADRID will attempt to preserve their flawless start under new manager Xabi Alonso when they host an impressive Espanyol side in La Liga on Saturday.
The Catalan club remains one of only four unbeaten teams in Spain’s top division but has not defeated Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu since 1996.
Los Blancos have won all four of their opening league matches before securing a Champions League victory against Marseille on Tuesday.
Alonso emphasised that his team is still developing and will continue to improve over the coming months.
“We’re growing, and the players are getting a sense of purpose,“ said the Spaniard.
“We’re on the right track. And how we’ll be in three months’ time will be better than what we are now.”
Madrid demonstrated resilience by defeating Marseille despite Dani Carvajal’s red card for headbutting, following another victory with ten men against Real Sociedad after Dean Huijsen’s dismissal.
Alonso is expected to rotate his squad against Espanyol to maintain squad involvement and freshness.
Vinicius Junior could return to the starting lineup after being benched for the Champions League fixture.
“There will be moments for everyone — nobody should feel offended by being left on the bench,“ said Alonso.
Kylian Mbappe will likely retain his place after scoring four La Liga goals and reaching 50 club goals with his brace against Marseille.
Trent Alexander-Arnold will miss the match with a hamstring injury, but Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga may return from their lay-offs.
Espanyol presents a significant challenge after their strong start under manager Manolo Gonzalez.
The Pericos sit third in the table with ten points after victories against Atletico Madrid, Osasuna, and Mallorca plus a draw with Real Sociedad.
“Madrid are a very difficult team (to face), especially at their stadium, but last season we beat them in our stadium,“ said Espanyol forward Javi Puado.
“We’re all moving in the same direction, the club, the fans, and the players, and it could be a very good season.”
Barcelona will aim to maintain pressure on Madrid when they host Getafe at their temporary Johan Cruyff Stadium on Sunday. – AFP
