Espanyol vs Real Madrid: Predicted Real Madrid XI and Arbeloa's attacking dilemma

Who: Real Madrid; What: predicted starting XI and selection dilemma; When: ahead of Sunday’s La Liga game with Espanyol; Why it matters: selection choices at right-back could influence Real Madrid’s attacking balance and the outcome at Espanyol.

Arbeloa’s attacking dilemma and the right-back role

Sports Mole’s preview frames one key selection question for Real Madrid ahead of the trip to Espanyol: how to use Álvaro Arbeloa in a way that supports the team’s attack without compromising defensive solidity. The piece examines potential lineups and how different options at right-back could change Madrid’s shape and thrust on the right flank.

How Real Madrid could line up

The Sports Mole article offers a predicted XI for Real Madrid for the Espanyol fixture and discusses tactical trade-offs. It considers whether Madrid should prioritise an attacking full-back presence or a more conservative defensive approach on the right. The preview looks at possible changes to personnel and formation that would address that dilemma.

• Source: Sports Mole preview of Real Madrid’s predicted lineup against Espanyol
• Focus: Álvaro Arbeloa’s role and the right-back attacking/defensive trade-off
• Context: La Liga fixture between Espanyol and Real Madrid on Sunday (preview published ahead of the match)

Tactical and squad implications

According to the preview, the decision over Arbeloa’s role could influence Real Madrid’s ability to attack down the right and how the manager sets the team up defensively. The article discusses how different selections might affect midfield cover and wide attacking options, though specific player names beyond Arbeloa and a full confirmed XI are not provided in the supplied metadata.

What happens next: Confirmed lineups and any manager comments will be available closer to kick-off. The preview provides a snapshot of the selection debate but should be cross-checked with official Real Madrid team announcements and up-to-date injury or suspension information before publishing.