3 reasons why October is a defining month for Real Madrid and Carlo Ancelotti

TWO IMPORTANT FIXTURES FOR REAL MADRID IN LALIGA

Real Madrid are currently on top of the table in La Liga with 17 points along with a game in hand. The Merengues now take on Espanyol in Barcelona and a win could further increase their lead over second-placed Atletico Madrid who have 17 points as well from eight games.

Carlo Ancelotti’s side are currently unbeaten in the league with five wins and two draws while also scoring the most number of goals in the league (28). Despite Real’s impressive run of form domestically, the Whites face two important fixtures after the international break.

First up is Athletic Bilbao at the Santiago Bernabeu. Marcelino Garcia’s side have not been at their best form lately after sealing a 1-0 win over Deportivo Alaves in their previous fixture. Despite their form, Bilbao is always a tough opponent to face and Real Madrid will have to be cautious against them while also aiming for three points.

Following the Bilbao game, Los Blancos travel to face Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League and then return to play Barcelona at the Camp Nou. The Catalans have had a horror start to the season under Ronaldo Koeman and Lionel Messi’s absence so far.

Real Madrid have gone four El Classico’s without a loss (3 wins and 1 draw) but they will be tested against Barcelona at home. Given the magnitude of the fixture, factors such as form won’t really matter and Barca will strive for three points to pull themselves together once again.