Real Madrid is about to face one of the most intense months in its recent history. As 2025 begins, Carlo Ancelotti's team has a minimum of eight matches scheduled in just 28 days, averaging one game every three days. 

A frenetic schedule

The marathon of matches kicks off on January 3 with a postponed LaLiga clash against Valencia, followed by a Copa del Rey encounter against modest Deportiva Minera on the 6th. Just three days later, the team will face Mallorca in the Supercopa de España semifinals in Saudi Arabia. If they progress, the final would take place on January 12 before returning to Spain to continue their domestic and cup campaigns.

On January 22, the Santiago Bernabéu will host a crucial Champions League group stage match against Salzburg, which could determine their qualification. The month concludes with LaLiga matches against Las Palmas and Valladolid, and a final European clash against Brest.

A result-oriented or efficient Madrid?

Former Real Madrid scout Manolo Romero recently commented on a sports program that while the team is achieving results, its playing style remains unconvincing. “If Madrid keeps winning the way they’re playing now, we’ll have to take them seriously. But their football is too conservative and heavily reliant on individual performances like those of Kylian Mbappé,” he said.

For Ancelotti, the challenge will not only be managing the physical load on his players but also finding a tactical balance to navigate this period without jeopardizing their performance in key competitions. With stars like Jude Bellingham and Vinícius Jr. leading the attack, the team will also need to rely on its squad depth to endure the grueling schedule.

Looking ahead

The pressure won’t ease in February, as new challenges await, including potential Copa del Rey quarterfinals and the start of the Champions League knockout rounds. Madrid fans know this phase of the season could define not just the club's sporting success but also the future of Ancelotti's project.

If Real Madrid manages to navigate this stretch successfully, it will solidify its bid for all the titles in play. However, the question remains whether the team can balance results with football that lives up to its legacy.