Real Madrid 2-0 Espanyol: 4 Talking Points 

1. Vinicius Jr impresses significantly

Vinicius was given a standing ovation upon his departure

Big things were expected from Vinicius following his mega transfer from Flamengo and after initial struggles, he slowly became integrated and ended his first season as one of Real Madrid's better players.

For all of his brilliance and direct play, a major criticism in his game has been his lack of composure when delivering the final ball and the arrival of Eden Hazard and blossoming of compatriot Rodrygo have limited his chances this season.

A spate of injuries to regular attackers including Eden Hazard and Gareth Bale handed Vinicius Jr the opportunity to start against Espanyol and it was one he grabbed with both hands.

The 19-year-old was started on the left of a front three alongside Rodrygo and Karim Benzema and he was easily the brightest spark in a match that the hosts struggled to dominate going forward.

He constantly skipped past Victor Gomez and set his teammates up on some occasions, with the best coming when Karim Benzema failed to convert a perfect centre in the 70th minute.

The Brazilian international completed the rather respectable total of 82.8% of his passes, while he had four shots (three on target), made four key passes, completed a game-high five dribbles and was generally more composed and assured in his decision making.

He was substituted for Brahim Diaz in the 86th minute and the applause given by the Bernabeu was indicative that they were impressed with his work and with Hazard set to be out until next year, Vinicius Jr would build on this display to become a key member of the first-team.