Espanyol vs Real Madrid prediction 22.08.2026 | La Liga

Espanyol had two very good seasons after their promotion to La Liga in 2024. The Catalan team finished 14th and then 11th last season. Last season, the difference between the European spots and relegation spots was only nine points, and Espanyol could have easily reached the top seven, but also could have been relegated. In the end, we feel that 11th place was adequate. 

For this season, the goal should be to be somewhere around the middle of the table once again. Looking at the squad, we believe they are of similar quality and that staying in the league won't be a problem. 

And indeed, in the first game of the season, they dominated Levante, beating them 3:0. After the game, coach Manolo González spoke to the media. He said it was important to start the season with a win, saying they played well and controlled the match. The coach said that when they play like that, they are capable of competing with anyone. 

Real Madrid started a new era this year with Jose Mourinho's arrival. Los Blancos finished the last season trophyless, and a big change was due. Over the summer, we believe they improved massively, adding fantastic players such as Yan Diomande, Marc Cucurella, Ibrahima Konate, Denzel Dumfries, Bernardo Silva, and Carlos Espi. On the other hand, they haven't lost any of their key players. They are undoubtedly a much better team this season, at least on paper. 

For the upcoming game, five players who missed the previous friendlies with injuries should remain sidelined: Raul Asencio, Eder Militao, Ferland Mendy, Thiago Pitarch, and most importantly, Rodrygo. According to the latest reports, Rodrygo should be sidelined at least for the 2026 calendar year.