Tensions have risen at Atlético de Madrid following the confirmation of the time of the next derby against Real Madrid. The match, which will be played on Sunday 29 September at 9:00 pm at the Metropolitano, has generated deep unrest in the offices of the colchonero team. The anger is not only with LaLiga , but Diego Pablo Simeone himself has made it clear that the decisions regarding the schedules blatantly benefit the white team.
Simeone and Atlético de Madrid's discontent
The reason for Simeone and Atlético de Madrid's anger is the difference in rest periods between the two teams before the derby. Real Madrid will play at home against Alavés on Tuesday 24 September, while Atlético will have to travel to Vigo to face Celta on Thursday 26 September . This means that the white team will have four days to prepare for the derby, while the red-and-whites will have just two days , including the time of the return trip to Madrid .
For Simeone , this 48-hour difference is unacceptable, especially when it comes to such a relevant match. The Argentine coach believes that insufficient rest directly affects the performance of his players, who will only have Friday and Saturday to recover and prepare for the highly anticipated match. With so little time, they will only be able to carry out a recovery session and a light practice before the match.
Florentino Perez's role in the controversy
Simeone has openly expressed his frustration, pointing to Florentino Perez as one of those responsible for this situation. At Atletico Madrid they believe that La Liga should seek a balance that allows both teams to compete on equal terms, especially in such an important match. At the red-and-white club they understand that a difference of 24 hours could be justifiable, but 48 hours is seen as an obvious affront.
The situation has caused many Atlético fans to also point their criticism towards the Real Madrid board. The insistence of the League on maintaining night-time schedules for Atlético has exhausted the patience of the coach and his team.
The impact of night-time schedules on Atlético de Madrid fans
Another cause for discontent is the insistence on scheduling Atlético Madrid 's matches at 9pm . This season, the team has already played at night against teams such as Villarreal , and faces a similar series against Valencia, Rayo Vallecano , and now Real Madrid . The only exception was the match against Athletic at San Mamés , which was played at 7pm .