Javier Tebas Responds to Ancelotti's 72-Hour Play Threat

Real Madrid's head coach Carlo Ancelotti has expressed frustration over the scheduling of matches that require his team to play less than 72 hours apart, specifically following their recent victory over Villarreal. La Liga president Javier Tebas responded to Ancelotti's complaints by clarifying that the scheduling change for the match against Leganes was initiated by Real Madrid's director Emilio Butragueno, who requested a later kickoff to accommodate players returning from international duty. Tebas highlighted that this shift ultimately resulted in a tighter schedule for the Copa del Rey semi-final against Real Sociedad three days later. Ancelotti has threatened that his team may refuse to participate in future matches if similar scheduling issues arise, emphasizing the need for adequate rest for players. This ongoing dispute illustrates the challenges both La Liga and clubs face regarding fixture congestion and player welfare. Real Madrid's management has not publicly responded to Tebas's remarks as tensions continue to simmer.