Real Madrid vs Espanyol : Predicted Lineup for La Liga Clash

Real Madrid faces Espanyol on September 20 amid a defensive selection crisis for head coach Xabi Alonso, due to injuries to Trent Alexander-Arnold and Antonio Rudiger, along with the suspension of Dean Huijsen. Dani Carvajal is expected to start at right-back, while Eder Militao will occupy one center-back position, though his defensive partner remains uncertain.

Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, and Endrick have returned to training after injuries but are unlikely to start; Bellingham may feature briefly in the final moments. The predicted lineup includes Thibault Courtois in goal, Carvajal at right-back, Militao and likely Raul Asencio in central defense, and Álvaro Carreras at left-back.

In midfield, Fede Valverde and Aurélien Tchouaméni are set to start, though Tchouaméni could be moved to center-back, potentially weakening the midfield. Arda Guler's position is under threat with Bellingham's imminent return. The attack may feature Brahim Diaz on the right wing, Vinicius Jr. on the left seeking motivation after recent bench appearances, and Kylian Mbappé as the unstoppable striker following his goal-scoring form.