Real Madrid face a colossal challenge in December. With a heavy fixture list and an impressive number of away games, Carlo Ancelotti’s men will need to draw on their reserves to stay on course on all fronts.
Real Madrid are going through a difficult period marked by mixed results. Between the disappointment of the defeat at Anfield against Liverpool in the Champions League and injuries, December is shaping up to be one of the most intense months for Real Madrid this season.
After an opening victory over Getafe at the Bernabéu (December 1), Los Merengues face a further six games, including four vital domestic and international away trips.
The programme:
- 4 December: Athletic Bilbao (at San Mamés)
- 7 December: Girona (Montilivi)
- 10 December: Atalanta (Bergamo, Champions League)
- 14 December: Rayo Vallecano (at Vallecas)
- 18 December: Club World Cup Final (Qatar)
- 22 December: Sevilla (home, Santiago Bernabéu)
It’s a series of matches that will put the players’ physical and mental endurance to the test. Since only two matches will take place at the Bernabéu.
Ancelotti and Real Madrid to travel 20,000 kilometres in December
According to calculations by Mundo Deportivo, Real Madrid will travel an impressive 20,000 kilometres in December. This volume of travel is unusual, even for a club used to international competitions. In any case, the trip to Qatar for the Club World Cup will be the main one. Madrid’s participation in this competition, thanks to their Champions League triumph, puts a considerable strain on the calendar.
In addition to the travel constraints and hectic pace, Real Madrid also have to contend with a depleted squad. Several key players, including David Alaba, Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal, are currently unavailable due to serious injuries. With an already weakened squad and players subject to an overloaded schedule, Carlo Ancelotti will have to be creative to keep the team competitive on all fronts.
A decisive month for Ancelotti and his team
Despite the challenges, December could prove to be a crucial turning point in Madrid’s season. A place in the last 16 of the Champions League, victory in the Club World Cup and solid results in La Liga would allow Real Madrid to head into 2025 with their spirits high and their goals still achievable.
But managing fatigue and injuries will be crucial. The rotation of the squad and the integration of young players such as Arda Güler, Endrick and Fran García could prove crucial in relieving the pressure on the senior players.
One thing is certain: Real Madrid have often demonstrated their ability to shine in the face of adversity. This busy month of December, with its logistical and sporting challenges, could well be the opportunity for Carlo Ancelotti’s men to prove once again their strength in overcoming obstacles.
Leave a Reply