Jan 31 (V7N) - Real Madrid, the reigning La Liga champions, will visit Espanyol on Saturday, aiming to maintain their top position in the table. This match is their final league fixture before a crucial derby against Atletico Madrid, who trail them by four points.

Kylian Mbappe has hit top form at the right time, helping Madrid avoid a potential crisis. Despite a shaky start to their Champions League campaign, Los Blancos advanced to the knockout stages and secured a 3-0 win at Brest on Wednesday. With Vinicius Junior suspended, Rodrygo Goes excelled on the left flank, scoring twice and continuing his strong run of form.

Mbappe’s resurgence has coincided with Vinicius’ absence due to injury and suspension. The Brazilian winger, however, will return for the Espanyol clash, and his partnership with Mbappe could elevate Madrid’s attack even further. "We look more solid, and I have full confidence in this team," coach Carlo Ancelotti said, praising his squad's recent improvements.

Mbappe has netted six goals in his last four matches across all competitions, though Vinicius has started only one of them. Earlier in January, Vinicius expressed his commitment to supporting Mbappe, saying, "Kylian has come to help us, and we will help him finish as top scorer in every competition."

Initially, Mbappe appeared to prefer Vinicius’ left-wing position, but Ancelotti persisted with him as a central striker, and the decision is paying off. The French forward recently acknowledged the need for humility upon joining a team that had just won the Champions League. "I can't come demanding to a team that has just won everything," Mbappe said.

Madrid will be strong favorites against Espanyol, who are battling relegation in 18th place. The match could serve as the perfect opportunity for Mbappe and Vinicius to develop their attacking chemistry. Meanwhile, in other La Liga action, Valencia’s Hugo Duro will look to bounce back against Celta Vigo after his team’s 7-1 thrashing by Barcelona last weekend.

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