A turbulent week from the field has Real Madrid returned to Lariga action against Leganes after an international break.
WHO: Real Madrid vs Leganes
Contents: Spain Lariga
Location: Santiago Bernabeu, Madrid, Spain
When: Saturday at 9pm (20:00 GMT)
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Holders champions Real Madrid endured a mixed season to defend the doubles of Lariga and the Champions League.
Barcelona cleared three points at the top of the Spanish league after a 3-0 victory over Osasuna on Thursday. Earlier this season, Real failed to automatically reach the Champions League knockout stage and was forced to qualify through the playoffs.
Al Jazeera will look at the latest league fixtures behind a turbulent week that has been off the field for the Spanish giants.
What fees were leveled for actual players this week?
The European football governing body began an investigation on Thursday into possible violations of disciplinary regulations by several real players following the recent Champions League victory over Atletico Madrid.
The investigation focuses on allegations of inappropriate conduct involving Antonio Rudegar, Killian Mbappe, Dani Seboros and Vinicius Jr.
Although UEFA did not elaborate on the incident under review, Spanish media have filed a complaint with real players who are provoking fans with post-match gestures and dances, saying the objects will be thrown.
What was the reaction to Real Madrid’s accusations?
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti expressed confidence on Friday that an investigation into alleged cheating by UEFA players will be resolved proactively as members of his team face the prospect of missing out on future key games.
“We believe everything is right and we hope UEFA will make a decision, but we believe everything will be fine,” Ancelotti told reporters.
“We are confident in the UEFA verdict that players have just celebrated. That’s it, we wait for the verdict, but the players have done nothing wrong,” added Ancelotti.
The Italian said his side would give everything to keep the title of Lariga. Both sides are still in the Champions League and Copa del Rey.
“Barcelona has its advantages, but we’re going to play to the end. I hope there will be 17 matches. [in all competitions] Ancelotti said.
Sharpshooters. pic.twitter.com/fgxdgslpxd
– Laliga English (@laligaen) March 28, 2025
How is Lariga’s title race shaped?
Barcelona’s victory on Thursday was also their match against their title rivals, and the three-point lead they just got is also strengthened by a difference in goals, a 19 effort that is better than the real thing.
Atletico Madrid is taking action on Saturday to travel to Espanyol earlier that day.
Real’s cross-city rivals will start Barcelona with four points from the second spot, seven leaders.
Where are Lariga leggas?
The Leganes will start their latest match in 18th place. It is the third top flight in Spain.
They have only recorded six wins in 28 games so far this season.
What are the fees related to Ancelotti?
Ancelotti is scheduled to go to trial on Wednesday for tax evasion charges in Spain.
Spanish prosecutors have accused Italy’s highly successful coach of scamming a million dollar condition in 2014 and 2015.
The Madrid-based court set a trial date on Friday.
State prosecutors are seeking sentences of up to four years and nine months for two counts of tax fraud. They accused Ancelotti of using a shell company in March 2024 to hide his real income.
Ancelotti denied any fraud.
Real Madrid Team News
Real will not have goalkeeper Thibaud Court Court for Saturday’s league match at home with Legane due to muscle tension. Ancelotti was hoping for other players to return in time for the Arsenal clash.
“There’s a small problem with Kotewa and we’re trying to recover Seboro [Ferland] Mendy in the first leg against Arsenal,” Ancelotti said.
Leganes Team News
Yvan Noupa faces a late fitness test after being withdrawn due to injury in the final Lariga game of Leganes before an international break.
Striker Daniel Lava also took off in that game, but is expected to be appropriate.
Former real youth team player Javi Hernandez is planning to start from the left back if both Enric Franquesa and Borna Barisic are not available.
