Atleti: Rest between matches, who benefits?
Atlético de Madrid has reacted with surprise to Real Madrid’s recent complaints about the lack of 72 hours of rest between matches, a topic that has generated debate in Spanish football.
The controversy arose after Real Madrid’s Champions League match, whose following league match did not meet the rest time recommended by FIFA. Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti expressed concern about the schedule, prioritizing television rights and money over player recovery and the risk of injury.
However, the rojiblanco club does not understand the controversy, as they consider that Atlético is one of the teams most affected by this situation this season. While FC Barcelona and Real Madrid have had four matches without adequate rest, Atlético has suffered this circumstance on five occasions, even surpassing the white team.
From the Metropolitano, the silence of the Spanish Footballers Association (AFE) on this matter until Real Madrid raised its voice has also attracted attention.
Other LaLiga teams, especially those competing in the Europa League and Conference League, such as Athletic de Bilbao and Real Betis, have also stated that they have suffered this problem more frequently. Coaches such as Ernesto Valverde, Imanol Alguacil and Manuel Pellegrini have alluded to this situation.
