Overview
- Multiple reports say club leadership views the Supercopa as decisive for Xabi Alonso’s job, a framing the coach accepts heading into the derby.
- Real Madrid travel without Kylian Mbappé due to a knee issue, with further absences including Éder Militão and Brahim Díaz on international duty.
- Atlético play Real Madrid in Thursday’s semifinal after Barcelona face Athletic Club on Wednesday, with the final scheduled for Sunday in Jeddah.
- Madrid arrive on a four-game winning run, including a 5-1 defeat of Real Betis highlighted by academy forward Gonzalo García’s hat-trick.
- Athletic captain Iñaki Williams reiterated his criticism of the Saudi venue, as the Copa del Rey draw sets Albacete–Real Madrid and Racing–Barcelona next week.