Copa del Rey final chaos: Real Madrid with less than 72 hours of rest as Barcelona gain 24-hour advantage | OneFootball

The much-anticipated Copa del Rey final between Real Madrid and Barcelona is set to take place at the end of the month, but it appears the excitement surrounding the third El Clasico of the season could be marred by a brewing controversy over scheduling.

It is to be noted that Real Madrid are set to face Getafe on April 23 at 9:00 p.m., with the Cup final scheduled for April 26, to be played at either 9:30 p.m. or 10:00 p.m.

This tight schedule means Carlo Ancelotti’s side will have just 70 hours and 45 minutes or, at best, 71 hours and 15 minutes to recover between matches.

Notably, this timeframe falls short of the recommended 72-hour rest period between fixtures, a guideline often regarded as essential for optimal player recovery and performance.

Real Madrid are already frustrated

The frustration from Real Madrid’s camp is understandable, especially considering the fact that Barcelona will enjoy 24 more hours of rest ahead of the final.

This discrepancy arises from the arrangement made before the semi-final clash between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.

It was reportedly established that the winner of that encounter would be granted the advantage of an extra day’s rest before the Copa del Rey final.

Carlo Ancelotti has already made himself very clear. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Ancelotti, well aware of the challenging schedule his team faces, voiced his displeasure during a press conference held on the eve of Real Madrid’s La Liga match against Leganes.

The veteran Italian manager was clear in his stance, stating, “We will not show up without a justified reason.” His words hinted at the possibility of further protests or demands from the club should the rest period not be respected.

There is nothing Real Madrid can do

Although Real Madrid could potentially request a change to the scheduling, SPORT suggest that such a request would likely fall on deaf ears.

The arrangement was predetermined, with the knowledge that whichever team emerged victorious from the Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid fixture would benefit from the extended recovery time.

Given the magnitude of the occasion and the physical demands placed on players at this stage of the season, Real Madrid’s frustration is understandable.

However, it remains to be seen if any adjustments will be made or if Ancelotti’s side will be forced to face Barcelona in the final under what they deem to be unfavourable conditions.