Vinicius Junior returns as Real Madrid aim to crush Espanyol

The team, sitting atop the league table with 49 points from 21 games, are four points ahead of Atletico Madrid. Manager Carlo Ancelotti has emphasized the importance of not faltering at this stage of the season.

"We're better than we were in December, we're on a very good run... but we have to keep going," Ancelotti said during a press conference on Friday ahead of Saturday's match at RCDE Stadium.

He warned that every game could be a potential pitfall. "There are so many games that each one can be a trap. And that's what we don't want. It's time to move forward in this good dynamic. We can't afford to go backwards."

The match against Espanyol, who are languishing in 18th place with 20 points, presents its own challenges according to Ancelotti. "A difficult match. It's an important moment for everyone, because it's the final stretch.

"The points are becoming more important. We have the advantage at the moment and we want to continue," he stated.

Adding strength to their lineup, Real Madrid welcome back Brazilian winger Vinicius Junior, who returns after serving a two-match suspension following a red card against Valencia earlier in January. "He's aware of what he has to do on the pitch, because he's a mature person. We're delighted that he's coming back.

"He has trained very well, he is fresh and can contribute a lot tomorrow," Ancelotti said about Vinicius.

However, the team will be without Eduardo Camavinga, who continues to recover from a muscle injury sustained on 16 January against Celta Vigo. He was absent from the group training at Valdebebas, with his return now expected next week for matches against Leganes in the Copa del Rey and Atletico Madrid in La Liga.

Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao also missed the latest training session due to injuries.

Regarding transfer rumours surrounding Rodrygo and a potential move to the Saudi Pro League, Ancelotti was clear but cautious. "It's difficult for me to talk about the future of footballers, because they are personal decisions. But what I see is that those who are here are very happy and want to stay as long as possible. They want to win titles, to contribute," he said.

He added, "What I see, like what I hear, is that there are many who would like to be in Rodrygo's place... Because there are many players who want to play for this club, in this team, with this shirt."

As Real Madrid prepare for their ninth match in January, the focus remains on maintaining their lead at the top of La Liga and pushing forward in all competitions. 

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