Espanyol vs Real Madrid prediction

THE FORECAST

Real Madrid is dealing with a very extensive injury list — in addition to the already mentioned absentees (Militão, Mendy, Tchouameni, Rodrygo, Endrick, Asencio), the news also confirms Vinicius Junior, Camavinga and Rüdiger as casualties, which means Ancelotti travels to Espanyol with a severely depleted squad. Espanyol sits third after a convincing opening victory (3-0), has no suspensions and benefits from home advantage and a favorable schedule (6 days rest, next match not until 7 days later), while Real Madrid must play again in just 4 days and may therefore rotate. Additionally, the temperature (up to 28°C) could hinder an intensive pressing team, which works to the disadvantage of an already weakened Real Madrid that normally plays at a high tempo.