Real Madrid vs Girona

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Girona is optimistic about having Dovbyk back in action after he sat out last weekend's goalless draw against Real Sociedad due to knee discomfort. In the event that he's not fit to play, seasoned striker Cristián Stuani is expected to take on a more prominent role in the attacking lineup. Stuani, at 37 years old, has scored seven goals so far this season.

Meanwhile, the visiting team will have to cope without key players Daley Blind and Yángel Herrera, both of whom are suspended due to accumulated yellow cards. Additionally, coach Míchel will serve the first match of a two-game suspension for his protests during the Sociedad match.

Real Madrid faces uncertainty in defense, with manager Carlo Ancelotti facing the challenge of piecing together a makeshift backline, possibly without any recognized central defenders. The absence of David Alaba and Éder Militão due to leg injuries sustained early in the season, coupled with doubts surrounding Nacho Fernández and Antonio Rudiger due to minor ailments, leaves the defensive line depleted.

In the absence of these players, Madrid may once again deploy right-back Dani Carvajal in central defense, and there's speculation about midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni being used as an emergency defender.

Following their international commitments, Hamari Traore and Takefusa Kubo are expected to retain their positions in the starting lineup after featuring in the recent game against Mallorca.

Andre Silva may lead the attack in the center-forward role, potentially replacing Umar Sadiq, while Mikel Merino, Martin Zubimendi, and Brais Mendez are likely to maintain their roles in the midfield trio.

On the other side, Osasuna's head coach Arrasate could have a full squad at his disposal, with Unai Garcia returning from suspension and expected to reclaim his starting spot.

Despite no reported injury concerns for Osasuna leading up to the match, there are anticipated changes from their previous 3-0 defeat to Celta Vigo.

Aimar Oroz and Jose Arnaiz, who made appearances off the bench in the last game, may be considered for starting roles, alongside Kike Barja, who is also under consideration by the manager for potential lineup alterations.

The away fixture against Real Madrid wasn't initially given much significance when the Spanish league schedule was released. However, after six months and 23 rounds, Saturday's match at the Santiago Bernabeu now holds the potential to determine which team will have the upper hand in the title race come May.

This encounter pits the league's most decorated club against an underdog enjoying a remarkable season. With both sides having suffered just one defeat in the league so far, Real Madrid holds a narrow two-point lead over second-placed Girona.

Girona's remarkable run has drawn comparisons to Leicester City's improbable triumph in the English Premier League in 2016. Despite this, Girona coach Míchel Sánchez has consistently expressed his desire for his team to maintain its strong form and secure a top-four finish, thus securing a coveted Champions League spot.

Unlike some teams that adopt a defensive approach, Girona doesn't sit back and aim for narrow victories. Instead, they actively take the game to their opponents, regardless of their reputation. This proactive style has seen them stage impressive comebacks and lead the league with 52 goals, four more than Real Madrid. Notable victories include a 4-3 win over Atletico Madrid and a 4-2 triumph over Barcelona, showcasing their ability to compete with the best.

Vinicius Junior, who missed the most recent match against Atletico Madrid because of a neck ailment, is the major priority for Madrid in terms of health. The Brazilian has to get over this problem quickly for Los Blancos to feature.

Long-term absentees David Alaba, Thibaut Courtois, and Eder Militao are unavailable to Ancelotti, and Eduardo Camavinga and Antonio Rudiger are also questionable. After taking a knock and missing out against Atletico, the latter ought to return, and Camavinga's knee problem needs to be evaluated.

Girona isn't in a good place right now because Yangel Herrera and Daley Blind are out due to suspension. David Lopez, Joel Roca, and Toni Villa will all be absent since they are still recovering from injuries.

While Juan Carlos might be able to overcome his problem, Michel will need to figure out how to replace Blind and Herrera, two key players. Jhon Solis might go to midfield, while Arnau Martinez, a rookie player, might take the place of the seasoned Blind in the defense.