Carlo Ancelotti accused of lying by La Liga about Real Madrid request to move Villarreal clash after Italian coach's 'last time' warning

Madrid have certainly had a busy week. The Spanish champions secured a dramatic win on penalties over rivals Atletico in the Champions League on Wednesday night, before taking on Villarreal in La Liga on Saturday evening. Ancelotti had some strong words for the decision-makers in the division, suggesting La Liga do not protect his team after being afforded just 66 hours between the games.

Ancelotti said he asked twice for the date and time of the Villarreal game to be changed, but that claim has been disputed by La Liga. Reports from Marca say there was no official request from the club, and that the current Spanish rules to allow at least 48 hours between games has been fulfilled.

FIFA's guidelines say there should be a minimum of 72 hours between games, rather than La Liga's full two days.

Luckily for Madrid, that was the last time they will play within such a short space. However, rivals Barcelona will be placed in the same predicament when they return from the international break due to their involvement in the Champions League quarter-finals.