Real Madrid News
Two Real Madrid stars at risk of suspension heading into Real Sociedad clash
Real Madrid lock horns with Real Sociedad later tonight at the Santiago Bernabeu in La Liga, hoping to take the lead in the La Liga title race.
With only one point separating them from Barcelona, a victory tonight will take Real Madrid two points clear, putting pressure on their rivals who play Girona on Monday night.
Alvaro Arbeloa has been boosted by the return of Vinicius Jr. for the game after he missed out against Valencia through suspension for an accumulation of cards.
Carreras, Mastantuono at risk of suspension
Now, though, heading into tonight’s game against Real Sociedad, Real Madrid have two more players who are staring at a potential suspension risk.
Indeed, defender Alvaro Carreras and forward Franco Mastantuono could face a one-match ban if they are booked in tonight’s match at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Both the summer arrivals are currently on four yellow cards in La Liga this season. Another one tonight would take the count to five, earning them an automatic suspension for accumulation of cards.
In that case, both Carreras and Mastantuono would end up missing Real Madrid’s next La Liga clash against Osasuna away from home on 21 February.
Real Madrid have alternatives in both positions, with Fran Garcia and Ferland Mendy available to fill in at left-back, while Brahim Diaz and Rodrygo, if he recovers, can step in for Mastantuono in the attacking unit.
Yet, both Carreras and Mastantuono will want to keep their discipline and ensure that they finish the game without getting cautioned.
Real Madrid News
Carlos Espi reacts after scoring match-winning goal in Elche 2-3 Real Madrid: ‘Starting like this is a dream’
Carlos Espi is becoming Real Madrid’s unlikely late-game specialist.
The 21-year-old once again came off the bench to rescue Jose Mourinho’s side, this time scoring the 91st-minute winner in a dramatic 3-2 victory over Elche.
It was his second goal for the club, and both have arrived at crucial moments.
Speaking to Real Madrid TV after the match, Espi could barely contain his excitement.
“I’m so happy—the happiest man in the world. I try to help the team any way I can, and every time I step onto the field, I give it my all and come away feeling great.
“Starting like this has been a dream. This isn’t over yet; we’re going to keep going because we have Sunday’s match coming up.
Carlos Espi winning goal in Elche vs Real Madrid game. Mbappe assist. pic.twitter.com/STJBV3ikQL
— Daily Foot Vibes (@dailyfootvibes) September 16, 2026
“This is a team effort. All of us who take the field make the most of our opportunities and give it our all,” he began.
Espi keeps making his minutes count
There is a growing pattern to Espi’s involvement. Even though he has yet to start a match for the first team, that has not stopped him from making an impact.
His first goal arrived against Espanyol in Real Madrid’s opening game, when another late strike helped secure the result.
Against Elche, he was required again after Real Madrid surrendered a two-goal lead and suddenly found themselves in serious trouble.
Espi eventually appeared at the back post in the 91st minute and finished the move to give Mourinho’s team all three points.
The youngster shared the credit with his teammates, but he also had special praise for the player who supplied his decisive moment.
That assist came from Kylian Mbappe, whose presence has made Espi’s route into the starting XI particularly difficult.
“It’s unbelievable—it’s crazy to watch him train and play. In this case, he set me up for the goal, and I’m very happy for him, too.”
First Madrid derby already has Espi excited
The timing of Espi’s latest contribution could hardly be more interesting, as Real Madrid now face Atletico Madrid on Sunday, giving the forward an opportunity to experience his first Madrid derby.
“I’m really looking forward to it—I’m so excited. It’s my first derby here, and we’re going to go for it.”
For Mourinho, Espi is a useful option when matches become chaotic. He may not yet be a regular starter, but his two appearances on the scoresheet have carried considerably more weight than the minutes he has played.
