Sat Feb 01 18:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Real Madrid Ready to Face Espanyol, Vinícius Júnior Returns

**Barcelona, Spain** – Real Madrid travels to Barcelona to face a struggling Espanyol side on February 1st, looking to maintain their four-point La Liga lead over Atlético Madrid. While a crucial Champions League clash against Manchester City looms, Carlo Ancelotti’s focus remains on the domestic league.

Key players Eduardo Camavinga, Dani Carvajal, and Éder Militão remain sidelined due to injury. However, the return of Vinícius Júnior from suspension provides a significant boost to the attack. Another welcome return is that of David Alaba, who is expected to start after recovering from an ACL injury. He’ll partner with Antonio Rüdiger in central defense.

Ancelotti is likely to field a strong starting XI, with Thibaut Courtois in goal, Lucas Vázquez at right-back, Fran García at left-back, and a midfield pairing of Fede Valverde and Aurélien Tchouaméni. Rodrygo, Jude Bellingham, and the returning Vinícius Júnior will support star striker Kylian Mbappé, who leads the team with 22 goals across all competitions.

Espanyol, currently 18th in the league, poses a challenge, having only managed two clean sheets in their last eleven matches. Real Madrid will be aiming for their third consecutive clean sheet and to capitalize on Espanyol’s defensive vulnerabilities. The match promises a compelling encounter as Real Madrid aims to solidify their position at the top of La Liga.

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