Dolan Ready to Face Mourinho and Real Madrid

Upcoming Test

Tyrhys Dolan, 24, will take on Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid at RCDE Stadium on Saturday at 20:30 BST. The Manchester-born winger spent five years with Blackburn Rovers before moving to Espanyol last summer. He opened his second season in Spain by scoring in a 3-0 victory over Levante on the opening weekend.

Staying Focused

Dolan insists Espanyol will not alter their approach for the high-profile fixture. “These are the games you want to be playing in,” he said. “They’re the games the supporters want to watch and all eyes will be on it.” He added that Mourinho’s reputation for winning will mean the Madrid side will bring their best.

He also noted the opportunity to play against fellow Englishmen Jude Bellingham and Trent Alexander-Arnold, but said the focus would remain on securing three points. “When it’s business, it’s business,” Dolan said. “It’s nice to be playing against top talents and other English players. It’s great to see.”

To avoid letting the occasion get out of hand, Dolan plans to stick to the routine that has served him since moving to Spain. “I like to stay within the same routine and headspace,” he said.

Growing in La Liga

The winger said his first season in La Liga was a personal and footballing challenge, forcing him to become more self-reliant after moving away from family and friends. He believes the league’s standard has accelerated his development, improving his decision-making, crossing and ability to provide different types of assists.

Having made more than 30 appearances last season, Dolan now feels a greater weight of responsibility. “I feel much more responsibility within the team this year,” he said. He added that he now knows exactly what he’s doing heading into the season, with a solid fanbase and teammates who have become friends.

The 3-0 win over Levante gave the squad confidence heading into the Real Madrid visit, but Dolan warned that mistakes could be costly. “We can’t afford to make as many mistakes because Real Madrid will capitalise on it,” he said.

Dolan also highlighted the personal edge of the match, with many family and friends in the stands. “All my family and friends are buzzing,” he said. “We’re really looking forward to it and we’re ready for the challenge.”