It’s a fact that all Real Madrid players are enjoying a well-deserved rest during the last days of 2024, but they will soon need to report back to continue with a packed schedule. In fact, in January, the Blancos could play up to eight games across LaLiga, Copa del Rey, Champions League, and the Supercopa de España.

When Does Real Madrid Return to Action?

The first match of the year for Carlo Ancelotti’s side will be on January 3, a postponed game against Valencia, which was originally scheduled for November 2 but was delayed due to the tragedy caused by Dana in Spain.

As of now, Real Madrid has 40 points and sits in second place in the standings, just one point behind Atlético Madrid. It’s worth noting that both teams still have a game to play, and FC Barcelona is currently in third place.

A Busy Schedule in January

For the start of 2025, Real Madrid could play up to eight matches. After facing Valencia, they will compete in the Copa del Rey against Deportiva Minera on January 6, then travel to Saudi Arabia to face Mallorca in the Supercopa de España. If they progress, the final will take place on January 12.

On January 19, they will play against Las Palmas in LaLiga, followed by a Champions League clash with RB Salzburg on January 22. Three days later, on January 25, they will face Valladolid, and on January 29, they will close out the group stage of the Champions League against Brest.

January Could Define Their Future in Two Competitions

The Blancos can secure their place in the next round of the Champions League either directly or through the Playoffs. To advance directly, they need to defeat RB Salzburg and Stade Brestois in the 7th and 8th matchdays of the group stage, respectively.

However, the team from Madrid will also depend on other clubs such as AC Milan, Atlético de Madrid, Benfica, Lille, Sporting Lisbon, Monaco, Arsenal, Atalanta, and Bayern Munich not achieving good results in the final two matchdays.

In the Copa del Rey, they can’t afford any surprises, as the match against Deportivo Minera is a one-off knockout round.

Finally, in January, Real Madrid could capture their third title of the season, following victories in the UEFA Super Cup and the Intercontinental Cup. Their path to the title involves facing Mallorca in the Supercopa de España Semifinal, and if they progress, they will meet the winner of the series between FC Barcelona and Athletic Club.