Real Madrid Requests Postponement of Season-Opening Match
In a recent development, Real Madrid has submitted a request to LaLiga to postpone their season-opening match against Osasuna, originally scheduled for August 19 at the Santiago Bernabéu. This change is sought due to their participation in the FIFA Club World Cup, where they are set to play Paris Saint-Germain in a semifinal match this Wednesday in New Jersey.
Scheduling Conflict and Player Welfare
The scheduling conflict arises from the Spanish Players’ Union (AFE) agreement with both LaLiga and the two Spanish clubs competing in the Club World Cup, which stipulates that players should ideally have at least six weeks between tournaments. This includes a mandatory three weeks for rest along with another three weeks designated for preseason training.
Criticism of the Club World Cup Format
LaLiga president, Javier Tebas, has publicly criticized the expanded format of the Club World Cup. He argues that the tournament disrupts the entire national league ecosystem, particularly affecting European leagues. In light of these concerns, the AFE has taken proactive measures by sending a letter on Monday to the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), LaLiga, Real Madrid, and Osasuna, emphasizing the critical need for proper rest periods and a thorough preseason to ensure player welfare.
