Real Madrid’s attempt to gain additional rest before their Champions League second-leg showdown with Arsenal was denied by La Liga, according to Spanish outlet Cadena SER. The Spanish giants requested that their weekend fixture against Alaves, scheduled for Sunday, be moved to Saturday in hopes of securing more recovery time ahead of their crucial clash at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday, April 16.
La Liga reportedly received the request shortly after releasing the official fixture schedule on March 20. In their email to the league, Real Madrid highlighted the significance of the Arsenal fixtures, pointing out the strategic importance of gaining 24 extra hours of preparation between the two quarter-final legs.
“Moving the match against Deportivo Alaves to Saturday, April 12 would allow us more time to adequately prepare for both that match and the decisive match on Wednesday,” read the email.
Despite the appeal, the league stood firm on the schedule. The decision comes as Real Madrid face a steep challenge following a 3-0 defeat in the first leg at the Emirates Stadium, a result that stunned European football and leaves them needing another iconic comeback.
On the other hand, Arsenal are riding a wave of momentum. Mikel Arteta’s side faces Brentford this afternoon in the Premier League, with squad rotation expected to protect key players like Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, and Martin Odegaard ahead of the return leg in Madrid.
Reflecting on the win over Madrid, Arteta praised the mood around the squad but quickly shifted focus back to domestic duties. “It was a very special night,” he said. “That’s over, and now the full focus is on Brentford.”
He acknowledged the challenge Brentford pose, noting their organisation, work ethic, and progress as a Premier League club. “It’s going to be a really tough test for us,” he said. “They’ve earned everything through belief and structure. We must match that.”
With Madrid left frustrated by the lack of fixture flexibility and Arsenal looking to maintain their rhythm, all eyes are on the upcoming Champions League clash that could define both clubs’ seasons.