Manager Carlo Ancelotti stated on the eve of the game that Real Madrid, who have won 12 of their last 14 games in all competitions, are keen to maintain their winning streak when they take on lowly Espanyol in La Liga on Saturday.
With 49 points from 21 games, Real leads the Spanish top division standings by four points over second-place Atletico Madrid.
Ancelotti is aware that there isn’t much margin for error if Real wants to win La Liga again.
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“We’re better than we were in December, we’re on a very good run… but we have to keep going,” Ancelotti told reporters on Friday.
“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.”
Ancelotti stated that he anticipates a challenging matchup with Espanyol, who have 20 points and are ranked 18th in the league.
“A challenging game. Since it’s the last stretch, it’s a crucial time for everyone.
The importance of the points is growing. Right now, we’re ahead, and we want to keep it up,” Ancelotti stated.
The return of Brazilian winger Vinicius Jr., who was given a two-game suspension following his red card against Valencia earlier in January, will help Real Madrid.
“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.
After the 24-year-old Brazil international was linked to a move to the Saudi Pro League, the Italian was also questioned about winger Rodrygo.
“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,” Ancelotti said.
“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.”