In a recent press conference, Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti voiced his anger over the team’s intense match schedule, which has left key players like Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham physically drained. The team recently faced Atlético Madrid in a brutal Champions League match that went to extra time and penalties, followed by a La Liga clash against Villarreal just three days later. Both Mbappé and Bellingham played the full 120 minutes against Atlético and then 90 minutes against Villarreal, leaving them completely exhausted.
Ancelotti didn’t hold back in expressing his frustration, declaring, “Today is the last time we are going to play a game without 72 hours of rest.” He emphasized the need for proper recovery time and revealed that the club had reached out to La Liga to address the issue but received no response.
The tight schedule has raised concerns not only about player fatigue but also about the potential for injuries. The Asociación de Futbolistas Españoles (AFE) has backed Real Madrid’s stance, calling it “non-negotiable” for players to have 72 to 96 hours of rest between matches to protect their physical and mental well-being.
Despite the overwhelming fatigue, Mbappé showed his determination by leading Real Madrid to a 2-1 victory over Villarreal, scoring both goals in a crucial comeback. His performance silenced critics who had questioned his ability to shine in important matches.
The ongoing situation has sparked a wider conversation about player welfare and match scheduling, with Real Madrid considering appealing to FIFA to prevent similar scheduling conflicts in the future. Ancelotti’s firm stance indicates that the club may refuse to play in matches that do not meet the minimum rest period, prioritizing player health and overall performance.
