Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has made a statement regarding his team’s busy schedule after a 2-1 comeback win over Villarreal on March 15, 2025.
Just two days before, Real Madrid won a tough penalty shootout against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League.
Carlo Ancelotti made it clear that Real Madrid will not play any matches unless they get at least 72 hours of rest between games.
“This is the last time we play a match before 72 hours of rest. We will never do it again,” he said in a press conference.
The coach is concerned about his player’s health in back-to-back big matches like the Champions League tie against Atletico, putting too much pressure and fatigue on them.
Mbappé was the hero of the match, scoring two comeback goals for Real Madrid against Villarreal.
Mbappé’s two goals helped Real Madrid take all three points and move to the top of the La Liga Table with 60 points, just three points ahead of Barcelona.
SUGGESTED READ: Will Ronaldo Jr. Follow in His Father’s Footsteps?
Mbappé’s clinical finishing was outstanding despite their busy schedule and fatigue.
“It’s not easy to play again after just two days, but we must respect the club and give our best until the end,” Mbappé said on Real Madrid TV.
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has expressed his frustration with the team’s tight schedule, having just 67 hours’ rest between the Atletico and Villarreal matches.
The club has requested La Liga twice to change the timing of the Villarreal match but received no response.
“We have asked La Liga twice to change the timing of the game and nothing has happened, but this is the last time,” Ancelotti confirmed.
The scheduling problem is not new for Real Madrid as they often face challenges due to their packed football calendar, especially the Champions League and the upcoming Club World Cup.
Furthermore, Ancelotti’s frustration is quite understandable. Playing without proper rest under such conditions can risk injuries, impact performance, and even end up costing titles for a team.
Given the coach’s emphasis on at least 72 hours of rest between games, it may create a new standard, keeping in mind the player’s physical and mental health.
The way future matches are scheduled will be important for keeping top teams like Real Madrid healthy and performing well, as La Liga and UEFA face pressure to solve this issue.
YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED: FIFA Lifts Pakistan Football Federation Ban
