Overview
Real Madrid will kick off the preparation process for the 2026-2027 season with a friendly match with Leganes at the Valdebebas training center. The match takes place in a stadium without spectators and is considered Los Blancos' first test this summer.
After a summer affected by the World Cup, many Real Madrid players have just returned to join the team, so the coaching staff does not put much emphasis on the result factor. The biggest goal is to help players regain their competitive feeling, improve their fitness and gradually improve their playing style before the official season kicks off.
Besides, the match is also an opportunity for coach Jose Mourinho to evaluate young players and new faces. Arda Guler has returned to training after injury and is likely to be given the opportunity to play, while the new players are expected to soon integrate into the tactical system of the Royal team.
In the opposite direction, Leganes entered the match with more thorough preparation. This team has gone through 4 friendly matches before and just won the first victory in the pre-season period against Penafiel. This gives Leganes a certain advantage in terms of competitive feeling and cohesion.
Although only a friendly match, this confrontation is still expected as Leganes is likely to take advantage of their better physical foundation to cause difficulties for Real Madrid. Meanwhile, the Bernabeu home team will focus on controlling the game, testing personnel and assessing the depth of the squad.
For young players, this is an important opportunity to score points in the eyes of the coaching staff and compete for a spot in the new season. Performances in the pre-season period often play a significant role in deciding the future of many young talents.
After the challenge with Leganes, Real Madrid will continue their friendly schedule with matches against Fiorentina and some other opponents. Therefore, the clash at Valdebebas will bring the first signals about the appearance and tactical direction of the Royal team under Mourinho.
Expected lineup:
Real Madrid: Fran Gonzalez, David Jimenez, Asencio, Huijsen, Alvaro Carreras, Pitarch, Cestero, Palacios, Brahim Diaz, Mastantuono, Gonzalo Garcia.
Leganes: Fernandez, Diawara, Figueredo, N. Garcia, Gothler, Gueye, Guirao, Marvel, Melero, Miquel, Rodriguez.
The match between Real Madrid and Leganes takes place at 11:00 p.m. on July 28 (Vietnam time).
