Vinicius Jr is back after suspension as Real Madrid takes on the side currently ranking third from bottom and desperately needing points to escape the relegation zone. Madrid had few problems against bottom side Real Valladolid last weekend, and also won in Brest on Wednesday, although it still faces a potentially difficult UEFA Champions League playoff round and also has a Copa del Rey quarterfinal next week in Leganes.
Real Madrid has traditionally done well against Espanyol, while Saturday could give David Alaba the chance for more game time as he continues his recovery from a serious knee injury.
Atletico Madrid cruised into the last 16 of the Champions League with a win at Red Bull Salzburg on Wednesday, but has only taken one point in the past two league matches, conceding top spot to Real Madrid. Diego Simeone's side entertains sixth-placed Mallorca, who will be without the suspended Omar Mascarell for Saturday's game.
Atletico visits Real Madrid next weekend, and striker Julian Alvarez will have to be careful as he has picked up four yellow cards this season and another one would see him miss the trip to the Santiago Bernabeu.
Barcelona recovered its league form with last weekend's spanking of Valencia, and Hansi Flick's side is at home against relegation-threatened Alaves. Alaves' decision to replace former coach Luis Garcia with Eduardo Coudet has yet to pay off, although the team has registered four draws in their last six games.
