As Real Madrid prepares to face Villarreal this Saturday at 21h, memories of fiercely contested matches and painful setbacks for the Merengues resurface.
The encounters between Real Madrid and Villarreal have become synonymous with intensity and drama in recent years. These clashes have not only been thrilling on the pitch but have also left a trail of injuries, particularly for the Madrid side. Fans vividly recall the severe injury to Dani Carvajal last season, which sidelined the right-back until the Club World Cup in June.
A String of Unfortunate Events
The past two years have seen a peculiar pattern emerge at the Santiago Bernabéu whenever Villarreal, known as the “Yellow Submarine,” comes to town. A series of unfortunate injuries have plagued Real Madrid, leading some to speculate about a “curse” against their opponents from the east coast.
The injury to Carvajal was just one in a line of mishaps that have marred these encounters. Last season’s clash also saw key players like David Alaba suffer setbacks, adding to the tension and unpredictability surrounding these matchups.
Tensions Run High
The rivalry has not been limited to physical challenges. Off-the-ball incidents, such as confrontations between players like Federico Valverde and Álex Baena, have further fueled the competitive fire between these two sides. Such incidents underscore the high stakes and emotional intensity that characterize these meetings.
“Every match against Villarreal is a battle,” remarked an insider familiar with the team’s dynamics. The anticipation of another hard-fought contest is palpable, with both teams eager to assert their dominance.
Xabi Alonso’s Challenge
The pressure is on for Xabi Alonso, who hopes to steer his team clear of this recurring jinx. As he prepares his squad for yet another challenging encounter, avoiding injuries will be as crucial as securing a victory.
The looming question remains: Can Real Madrid break free from this cycle of misfortune and reclaim their fortress against Villarreal? Or will the “curse” continue to haunt them?