Real Madrid has formally requested the postponement of their opening La Liga match against Osasuna, originally scheduled for August 19, 2025. The club’s participation in the FIFA Club World Cup has led to concerns over player fatigue and insufficient preparation time.
The team is currently engaged in the Club World Cup semifinals, with a potential final on July 13. This tight schedule leaves the squad with minimal rest before the domestic season commences. Real Madrid has proposed rescheduling the match to October 29, a date that coincides with the first round of the Copa del Rey, a tournament from which they are exempt. Osasuna has agreed to this proposed date change.
The Spanish Footballers’ Association (AFE) has expressed support for Real Madrid’s request, emphasizing the importance of adequate rest and preseason preparation for players. The AFE has communicated with La Liga, the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), and Osasuna, highlighting the necessity of adhering to agreements that ensure player welfare.
However, La Liga has yet to receive an official request from Real Madrid regarding the postponement. Sources within the league have stated that no formal communication has been received, though they acknowledge the possibility of such a request arriving in the future. La Liga has indicated that it will review any forthcoming request in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement and existing regulations.
The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has also weighed in on the matter, expressing a preference to wait until after Real Madrid’s semifinal match against Paris Saint-Germain before making a decision. The final determination will rest with the Competition Judge, who will assess the situation based on the official request and the circumstances at that time.
This situation underscores the challenges posed by overlapping international and domestic schedules, particularly when clubs participate in extended tournaments like the Club World Cup. The outcome of this request will have implications not only for Real Madrid and Osasuna but also for the broader scheduling and management of La Liga fixtures.
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