Atletico Madrid vs Real Madrid: 5 key battles to watch out for

#4 Luka Modric vs Saul Niguez

Real Madrid v Espanyol - La Liga

Generally viewed as the machine that drives Real Madrid, Luka Modric has been one of the club's most important players in the past several seasons, and has played an instrumental role in all their successes, including their consecutive Champions League title victories.

The Croatian wizard is well known for his ability to exert his influence throughout the game, and is tenacious off the ball as well.

Modric will be up against a 22-year-old in-form Saul Niguez, who has often been considered the future of Spain's thriving midfield. Saul is an important part of Simeone's team, and has had several good matches playing in midfield for them this season.

The first half against Barcelona saw Saul trouble a formidable Barcelona midfield. He also scored an excellent goal against them, curling his shot past a diving Ter Stegen.

Modric and Saul may be at opposite ends of their careers, but while Saul's energy is seemingly inexhaustible, Modric more than makes up for it with his presence of mind. Derbies such as these don't always go the way of the team that controls the midfield, but a battle between these two technically gifted players is surely worth a watch.