Espanyol vs Real Madrid: Mourinho's LaLiga Return, Vinicius Jr Record, Mbappe and Bellingham in Starting XI

Real Madrid begin their LaLiga 2026-27 campaign with a trip to RCDE Stadium to face Espanyol on August 22. This is not just another league fixture — it marks Jose Mourinho's official return to LaLiga management after nearly 13 years away from Real Madrid.

The match kicks off at 9:30 PM CEST (1:00 AM IST on August 23). Real Madrid's originally scheduled LaLiga opener against Real Sociedad was postponed due to player involvement in the Club World Cup, making this Espanyol clash Mourinho's first competitive LaLiga match since rejoining the club.

Jose Mourinho Returns to Real Madrid Dugout

Jose Mourinho previously managed Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013, winning a LaLiga title, Copa del Rey, and Spanish Super Cup. His return comes at a time when the club has gone two consecutive seasons without a major trophy. Mourinho has made clear that at Real Madrid, a season without silverware is never acceptable.

The biggest challenge for Mourinho is finding the right balance among his attacking stars. With Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Jude Bellingham all vying for central roles, Mourinho has stated the team will not revolve around any single player. He also has new signing Bernardo Silva in midfield and a revamped defence featuring Ibrahima Konate and Denzel Dumfries.

Vinicius Junior's Goal-Scoring Record Against Espanyol

Vinicius Junior has a remarkable record against Espanyol in LaLiga. In 11 meetings, the Brazilian forward has scored 5 goals, including 3 at RCDE Stadium. No other away ground in LaLiga has seen Vinicius score as frequently as Espanyol's home. With his new contract extension through 2032, Vinicius is fully committed to Real Madrid's title push this season.

On the opposite side, Espanyol striker Roberto Fernandez is in excellent form, scoring three goals in his last two LaLiga matches including a brace against Levante in a 3-0 victory.

Mourinho's Head-to-Head Record vs Espanyol

During his first spell at Real Madrid, Mourinho faced Espanyol six times in LaLiga and remained unbeaten — winning four and drawing two. Espanyol coach Manolo Gonzalez has a less favourable record against Real Madrid, with three defeats and just one win in four LaLiga encounters.

Real Madrid Starting XI for Espanyol vs Real Madrid

Real Madrid have announced their starting lineup: Thibaut Courtois; Denzel Dumfries, Ibrahima Konate, Dean Huijsen, Alvaro Carreras; Federico Valverde, Bernardo Silva, Jude Bellingham; Arda Guler, Vinicius Junior, Kylian Mbappe.

Espanyol's starting XI features Dmitrovic; El Hilali, Riedel, Unai Nunez, Hinojo; Urko, Edu Exposito, Calatrava; Javier Hernandez, Dolan, Roberto Fernandez.

Can Espanyol Challenge Real Madrid at RCDE Stadium?

Espanyol enter this match with momentum after beating Levante 3-0 in their LaLiga season opener. They are already match-fit and in competitive rhythm, while Real Madrid play their first official LaLiga fixture of 2026-27. The home advantage at RCDE Stadium could pose problems for Mourinho's men.

However, Real Madrid's firepower with Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham, and Arda Guler means they can change the complexion of any match in an instant. Mourinho's tactical nous combined with this attacking talent makes Real Madrid strong favourites for all three points.

Match Details: Espanyol vs Real Madrid

• Match: Espanyol vs Real Madrid
• Competition: LaLiga 2026-27
• Date: August 22, 2026
• Kick-off: 9:30 PM CEST / 1:00 AM IST (August 23)
• Venue: RCDE Stadium, Barcelona
• Real Madrid Manager: Jose Mourinho

This Espanyol vs Real Madrid fixture combines Mourinho's highly anticipated LaLiga return, Vinicius Junior's prolific record at RCDE Stadium, and Real Madrid's quest to reclaim the LaLiga title from Barcelona — making it one of the most talked-about opening fixtures of the LaLiga 2026-27 season.