(Football news) After a 3-0 win away at Elche, Real Madrid prepare to host Sevilla. Los Blancos are on top of the table but Barcelona is on their tail. Sevilla did not start the season as Julen Lopetegui was sacked. New coach Jorge Sampaoli has managed four games out of which they have won 1 and drawn 3. Traditionally Sevilla have always been a tough opponent for Real Madrid irrespective of their form. Isco will be returning to the Santiago Bernabeu after leaving last season. Sevilla will be without Tanguy Nianzou, Karim Rekik, Fernando and Jesus Corona while Jose Angel Carmona is also a doubt. Dani Ceballos and Mariano will miss the game for Real Madrid. There are reports of Karim Benzema suffering a knock in training which makes him a doubt for the game. Thibaut Courtois has recovered from his injury and will be back between the sticks for the Merengues.

Atletico Madrid's inconsistencies continued midweek as they drew their game against Rayo Vallecano. They will now play away against Real Betis at the Benito Villamarin. The Rojiblancos have lost their way and bounced so many times this season already but what they need right now is consistency. Betis are currently 5th in the La Liga table and a win would take them to 4th place above Atletico Madrid. Key players Juanmi and Nabil Fekir will miss the game due to injuries which is a big blow. Atletico Madrid on the other hand will be without Koke, Thomas Lemar and Marcos Llorente. Jan Oblak is still a doubt while Sergio Reguilon could make it to the matchday squad for the first time since his move from Tottenham Hotspur. 

Barcelona will be hosting Athletic Club in search of 3 points. The Catalan giants will come into the game after a comfortable 3-0 win against Villarreal. Andreas Christensen and Jules Kounde are still out of contention but Memphis Depay could be back in the squad. Xavi benched Sergio Busquets, Ousmane Dembele and Raphinha in the last match and it will be interesting to see if he brings them back. Bilbao will be without Ander Capa and Jon Morcillo who are injured. Despite being 6th on the table, Bilbao are winless in their last 3 games and what better place to break the streak than the Nou Camp.

Also read: Liverpool and City look to secure three points in the Premier League