Real Madrid vs Espanyol Predicted Lineups: Mbappé, Vinicius, and Bellingham Set for Action

A Crucial Test Before the Madrid Derby

As La Liga’s September fixtures heat up, Real Madrid welcome Espanyol to the Santiago Bernabéu in a match that offers both opportunity and risk. For Xabi Alonso, now steering the club with a mix of tactical discipline and daring flair, this fixture could be the perfect chance to rotate his squad ahead of next week’s highly anticipated Madrid Derby against Atlético.

While Espanyol arrive in excellent form and punching above expectations, Madrid remain clear favorites — boasting a squad filled with depth, experience, and individual brilliance. The central question: How bold will Alonso be in his selections?

Predicted Real Madrid Lineup

According to early reports, Alonso is expected to deploy a side blending regular starters with rising stars.

Real Madrid Predicted XI:

• Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois

• Defense: Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, Asencio, Fran García

• Midfield: Aurélien Tchouaméni, Federico Valverde, Arda Güler

• Attack: Mastantuono, Vinícius Júnior, Kylian Mbappé

Notably absent from the starting lineup are Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga, who are both expected to feature but likely from the bench. This would allow them to stay fresh for Atlético while still giving the Bernabéu faithful a glimpse of their midfield dynamism.

Espanyol’s Response

Espanyol, meanwhile, have proven stubborn opponents this season. Their predicted XI emphasizes balance, with a mix of defensive solidity and counterattacking potential:

Espanyol Predicted XI:

• Goalkeeper: Marko Dmitrović

• Defense: Omar, Fernando Calero, Leandro Cabrera, Romero

• Midfield: Lozano, Urko, Dolan, Javi Puado

• Attack: Sergi Darder Expósito

The Catalan side’s success has been rooted in resilience, tactical discipline, and exploiting transitions. Against a possession-heavy Madrid, Espanyol will look to frustrate and pounce on mistakes.

Key Storylines to Watch

1. Mbappé and Vinícius Together

Every match featuring Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior sparks excitement. Their pace and creativity could overwhelm Espanyol’s backline, especially if Madrid seek early goals to control the game.

2. Arda Güler’s Role

Still developing but immensely talented, Arda Güler could be handed a significant role in this clash. His creativity in midfield might prove decisive against Espanyol’s compact setup.

3. Bellingham and Camavinga Off the Bench

With the Madrid Derby looming, Alonso may resist starting his midfield stars. However, their introduction in the second half could tilt momentum sharply in Madrid’s favor.

Tactical Battle

Espanyol’s compact 4-4-2 shape will likely look to suffocate Madrid’s midfield trio while forcing turnovers in wide areas. Alonso’s men, however, will attempt to stretch the field with overlapping full-backs and vertical passing lanes to exploit Mbappé and Vinícius’ acceleration.

Patience could be key: if Madrid fail to score early, frustration may build, giving Espanyol the chance to grow in confidence.

Confidence Ahead of the Derby

This fixture is as much about momentum as it is about points. A convincing victory for Madrid would set the tone heading into the showdown with Atlético. For Alonso, ensuring his squad remains sharp, rested, and injury-free may be just as important as securing three points.

Match Details: How to Watch

• Date: Saturday, September 20, 2025

• Kickoff Time: 16:15 CEST (10:15 AM EST)

• Venue: Santiago Bernabéu, Madrid, Spain

• TV Broadcast: DAZN La Liga (Spain), ESPN Deportes (USA)

• Streaming: ESPN+ (USA)