Mansion Sports – This weekend, the Santiago Bernabéu will once again host a thrilling LaLiga encounter as Real Madrid take on Espanyol on Saturday, September 20, 2025, with kick-off scheduled for 16:15 local time.

This fixture is not just an ordinary league game—it represents a clash between two sides in superb form, with contrasting histories but equally high ambitions. 

Real Madrid, under the management of Xabi Alonso, are determined to maintain their flawless winning run, while Espanyol arrive with confidence after making an impressive start to the season.

The match promises to be an adrenaline-charged contest, as the history and performance of both teams set the stage for a dramatic showdown. 

Madrid will be seeking their fifth consecutive victory across all competitions, while Espanyol aim to prove they can be a genuine threat, even at one of the most difficult venues to conquer in world football.

Before diving into the predicted lineups, let us first explore the condition of both teams as they prepare for this highly anticipated fixture.

Real Madrid: Continuing Positive Momentum with Mbappé as the Goal Machine

Real Madrid have begun the 2025/26 season in convincing fashion under head coach Xabi Alonso. 

The Spanish giants have recorded four consecutive LaLiga victories against Osasuna, Real Oviedo, Mallorca, and Real Sociedad, collecting 12 points from four matches to sit atop the standings, two points clear of Barcelona in second place.

Los Blancos also began their UEFA Champions League campaign on a strong note, defeating Marseille 2-1 in their opening group stage match, further underlining their competitiveness on the European stage.

At the heart of Madrid’s attacking power is Kylian Mbappé, who has already scored six goals in his first five appearances of the season. 

Since joining the club on a free transfer, the French forward has amassed an extraordinary tally of 50 goals in just 64 games. 

His partnership with Vinícius Júnior on the left flank and Franco Mastantuono on the right has provided Real Madrid with a lethal front line.

Despite their commanding form, Espanyol remain a tricky opponent. Historically, Real Madrid dominate this fixture with 117 wins in 199 meetings, including a 4-1 victory last season.

However, Espanyol stunned Los Blancos in their most recent encounter in February 2025, winning 1-0, a reminder that the Catalan side are capable of springing surprises even against superior opposition.

Espanyol: A Motivated Side with Their Eyes on the Top Spot

Espanyol arrive at the Bernabéu brimming with confidence after an excellent start to their LaLiga campaign. 

Under the guidance of Manolo Gonzalez, the Catalan club have collected 10 points from their opening four matches, placing them third in the standings, only two points behind leaders Real Madrid.

A win at the Bernabéu would temporarily move Espanyol to the top of the table, a massive incentive for a side that has consistently defied expectations this season.

Their campaign began with an impressive 2-1 victory over Atletico Madrid, followed by a 2-2 draw against Real Sociedad. 

They then went on to secure wins over Osasuna and Mallorca, results that have firmly established their place among the league’s early frontrunners.

Espanyol will take inspiration from their most recent victory at the Bernabéu in February 2025, and they will look to break Real Madrid’s longstanding dominance at home—a streak that has lasted since April 1996.

Predicted Lineups for Real Madrid vs Espanyol 2025

Real Madrid (Formation: 4-2-3-1)

• Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois
• Defenders: Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, David Alaba, Carreras
• Defensive Midfielders: Federico Valverde, Aurélien Tchouaméni
• Attacking Midfielders: Brahim Díaz, Arda Güler, Vinícius Júnior
• Striker: Kylian Mbappé
• Manager: Xabi Alonso

Real Madrid, however, face some injury setbacks ahead of the match. Trent Alexander-Arnold has been ruled out for six to eight weeks due to a hamstring injury sustained against Marseille.

Endrick, Ferland Mendy, and Antonio Rüdiger also remain unavailable. Additionally, Dean Huijsen is suspended after receiving a red card, opening the door for Raúl Asencio to step into the defense.

Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga have recently returned from injury and are expected to feature from the bench, while Mohamed Salah is set to remain a key presence on the right wing.

Espanyol (Formation: 4-4-1-1)

• Goalkeeper: Marko Dmitrović
• Defenders: El Hilali, Fernando Calero, Leandro Cabrera, Carlos Romero
• Midfielders: Dolan, Urko González de Zárate, Pol Lozano, Javi Puado
• Second Striker: Ramon Terrats
• Main Striker: Roberto Fernández
• Manager: Manolo Gonzalez

Espanyol, despite their strong momentum, are not without problems of their own. Brian Oliván is sidelined with a calf injury, while José Gragera is doubtful with muscle concerns. 

Additionally, Pere Milla will miss the match through suspension after receiving a red card, depriving Espanyol of one of their key scorers who has already netted three goals this season.

Veteran forward Kike García is expected to step in to replace Milla and could partner Roberto Fernández in the attacking line.

Final Thoughts

The predicted lineups for Real Madrid vs Espanyol 2025 highlight what promises to be a thrilling contest between two high-flying teams. 

Real Madrid are determined to extend their winning streak and consolidate their lead at the top of LaLiga, while Espanyol are motivated to defy the odds and snatch valuable points from the Bernabéu.

This match will also serve as a stage for key players from both sides to prove their worth, as the intensity of the LaLiga season builds. 

For fans eager to witness every moment of this high-stakes clash, make sure to follow official broadcasters or trusted streaming platforms to enjoy the action from start to finish.