Former Real Madrid manager gives his take on the UCL draw – ‘Could even affect planning’

Former Real Madrid forward and coach Jorge Valdano has shared his thoughts on the UEFA Champions League group stage draw.

Speaking after the event, Valdano pointed out that Barcelona came away with a much more favourable set of fixtures compared to Real Madrid.

“Barça came out much better than Real Madrid,” he said, making it clear that the Catalan side will face fewer complications in their European campaign.

Valdano, who has held several roles at Real Madrid, including player, coach, and general manager, was quick to highlight the problems this draw could create for Los Blancos.

He did not hide his concern about the difficulties of balancing such a demanding calendar.

“Real Madrid has been dealt a bad hand in the draw, it’s not going to be easy even in the games that seem easy,” he remarked.

He further explained that long-distance travel and the tight schedule “could even affect planning.”

“Barça has been dealt a much better hand than Real Madrid, although no team can relax for a minute with this schedule.

Jorge Valdano spoke about the drwa. (Photo by Victor Chavez/Getty Images for Soccerex)

“The draw is important for every club. What you get can be a problem that changes your preparation.

“Madrid will have to go to Almaty, which is like going to New York in terms of distance, or even further,” Valdano concluded.

Real Madrid’s group is one of the toughest in the competition.

They will host Manchester City, Juventus, Marseille, and Monaco at the Santiago Bernabeu, while also travelling to face Liverpool, Benfica, Olympiacos, and Kairat Almaty.

The draw means they will face some of Europe’s biggest clubs while also managing long trips, particularly to Kazakhstan, which adds a significant burden to their already packed schedule.

On the other hand, Barcelona appear to have a smoother route in the group stage.

While no opponent can be underestimated, Valdano’s comments certainly highlight the belief that Madrid’s road to qualification will be far more complicated than that of their great rivals.