Real Madrid are furious with La Liga president Javier Tebas over what they see as a complete lack of understanding regarding the vast disparity in preseason preparation time compared to their direct competitors. Tebas's repeated criticism following the league's rejection of Madrid’s request for more time has led to a tense exchange between both sides. And yet, it is Real Madrid who appear to be the biggest victim in this story.

After the rest following the Club World Cup, the squad returned to Valdebebas on Monday for what will be a rushed and limited preseason. With only one friendly match scheduled, against WSG Tirol in Austria next Tuesday, Xabi Alonso has been forced to push his players hard from day one.

Real Madrid TV has been quick to highlight the unequal playing field. Compared to other La Liga heavyweights, the difference in preparation time is striking. Real Madrid have just 15 days to prepare before their league opener against Osasuna on Tuesday, August 19.

In contrast, Diego Simeone’s Atlético Madrid will have 27 days of preseason, including two friendlies against Porto and Newcastle. They kick off their league campaign two days earlier on Sunday, August 17, against Espanyol, giving them a full 12 extra days of preparation.

The biggest gap, however, is with Barcelona. Hansi Flick’s team completed an extensive tour in Asia and will still play in the traditional Joan Gamper Trophy. Their La Liga season starts on Saturday, August 16, against Mallorca. In total, Barça will benefit from 33 days of preparation—18 more than Madrid.

Compounding the issue, Madrid’s squad is far from full strength. Key players like Endrick, Jude Bellingham, and Ferland Mendy are unavailable, while others like Éder Militão and Dani Carvajal are returning from long-term injuries.

After last season’s injury crisis, Florentino Pérez responded by reinforcing the squad with several new signings. Still, there is concern that the tight schedule could once again expose players to muscle injuries. The club believes La Liga’s refusal to offer even the slightest accommodation undermines fair competition.

Despite all the concerns and clear evidence of scheduling inequality, Javier Tebas remains unmoved, continuing to ignore Madrid’s repeated requests.

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