Carlo Ancelotti has hailed Real Madrid striker Endrick as a “very special player” after scoring on his Champions League debut. The 16-year-old, an 80th minute substitute, scored Madrid’s third goal in injury time to complete a 3-1 home victory over Stuttgart.

In LaLiga, they have won their last two games 2-0 against Real Betis and Real Sociedad, but have still come under fire for their performances. Ancelotti, however, defended his team's style ahead of their clash at home to mid-table Espanyol. "Real Madrid fans prefer winning over playing well," he said.

Carlo Ancelotti praised Kylian Mbappé's performance after the forward scored in Real Madrid's 2-0 win away at Real Sociedad on Saturday, saying Mbappé looked "fresher, more active" and is "improving a lot.