Real Madrid manager José Mourinho voiced sharp criticism over the scheduling of his team’s upcoming fixture list, singling out a domestic match just days before an international break as a glaring lack of respect. The remarks arrive as the club prepares for a grueling travel schedule spanning roughly 6,000 kilometers and 11 flight hours across three matches in seven days.
Tight Schedule and Heavy Travel Strain Real Madrid
The demanding stretch begins at Racing Santander before the squad travels for a UEFA Champions League fixture against AEK Athen and a domestic clash against Valencia CF at the Mestalla stadium. Mourinho noted that the congested calendar leaves virtually no room for normal team training sessions, forcing the coaching staff to balance recovery, travel, and match preparation under immense time pressure.
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“That shows at least a lack of respect,” Mourinho said regarding the weekend fixture. “Playing in Valencia on a Saturday on the weekend before the international break makes no sense at all. I am not buying the usual excuses.”
Momentum Tested Following El Clásico Victory
Despite the logistical hurdles and physical toll, the squad aims to maintain its current momentum. Real Madrid carries a five-match winning streak into the upcoming fixtures, looking to build upon their recent success at Camp Nou. Securing three additional victories before the international break remains the primary objective for Mourinho’s side as they navigate the congested fixture list.
Dispute Over Last-Minute Disciplinary Decisions
Frustrations surrounding governing bodies extended beyond fixture congestion. Mourinho reacted to the timing of a four-match suspension handed down to forward Vinícius Jr. The sanction followed a red card for pulling the hair of Villarreal opponent Nathan Saliba during a 1-0 league victory. The suspension ruling was communicated to the club just two hours before a Champions League match against AS Rom.
“They are doing it quite shamelessly now. The cat is out of the bag. Two hours before the match, a player has to find out that he has a four-match suspension,” Mourinho said. While not disputing the severity of the punishment itself, the manager criticized the timing as an attempt to destabilize the player immediately ahead of kickoff.
Next Fixtures on the Horizon
Real Madrid continues its demanding domestic and European calendar with the upcoming league fixture against Racing Santander, followed by the Champions League journey to face AEK Athen.
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