So, you’re looking for when is real madrid next game because the schedule looks like a jigsaw puzzle right now. I get it. Honestly, things at the Bernabéu have moved from "stressful" to "absolute fever dream" in the last 72 hours.
If you just want the quick answer: Real Madrid plays Albacete tonight, Wednesday, January 14, 2026, in the Copa del Rey Round of 16. Kickoff is set for 12:00 PM EST (which is 6:00 PM in Spain).
But wait. There is so much more happening behind that simple calendar entry.
The Shocking Context of the Next Match
You’ve probably heard the news by now, but it still feels fake. Xabi Alonso is out. After that painful 3-2 loss to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final in Jeddah just a few days ago, the club pulled the trigger. It was brutal. Raphinha basically ended an era in one night.
Now, we have Álvaro Arbeloa stepping in as the interim boss.
👉 See also: Sammy Sosa Before and After Steroids: What Really Happened
This isn't just a "next game." This is a total reset. Arbeloa’s first-ever squad list for tonight's game against Albacete has sent shockwaves through Madridismo. He basically left half the "Galacticos" at home. If you're planning to watch, don't expect to see the usual faces.
Who Is Actually Playing Tonight?
Arbeloa is gambling. Big time. He’s left Jude Bellingham and Thibaut Courtois in Madrid to rest. They aren't even on the plane. Add that to a medical room that looks more like a hospital ward, and you realize how thin this team is stretching.
Here is the current injury disaster list:
- Kylian Mbappé: Out (Knee issues after rushing back for the Super Cup).
- Rodrygo: Out (Lingering discomfort).
- Antonio Rüdiger: Out (Knee).
- Trent Alexander-Arnold: Out (Fitness).
- Éder Militão: Out (Long-term).
- Ferland Mendy: Out (Muscle injury).
Basically, the defense is Dani Carvajal and a prayer. Arbeloa has called up seven youth players from La Fábrica to fill the gaps. It’s a bold move, but against a Segunda Division side like Albacete, he’s clearly betting that the kids can handle the pressure while the superstars recover from the Saudi Arabia trip.
✨ Don't miss: Saint Benedict's Prep Soccer: Why the Gray Bees Keep Winning Everything
Real Madrid Upcoming Schedule: January 2026
After the whistle blows tonight, the marathon continues. There is literally no breathing room. If you’re tracking when is real madrid next game for the rest of the month, keep these dates on your radar because the competitions are flying thick and fast.
- Saturday, January 17: Real Madrid vs. Levante (La Liga) - 2:00 PM CET.
- Tuesday, January 20: Real Madrid vs. AS Monaco (Champions League) - 9:00 PM CET.
- Saturday, January 24: Villarreal vs. Real Madrid (La Liga) - 9:00 PM CET.
- Wednesday, January 28: Benfica vs. Real Madrid (Champions League) - 9:00 PM CET.
Four competitions in one month. It’s insane. The Monaco game is huge because the new Champions League format doesn't forgive many mistakes, and that loss to Man City back in December still stings the point total.
What to Watch For in the Albacete Game
Since Arbeloa is shaking things up, keep an eye on Andriy Lunin. With Courtois resting, the Ukrainian gets another chance to prove he’s more than just a backup. He’s been the "senior figure" in the defensive meetings this week, which tells you everything you need to know about how young the rest of the backline is.
Also, look for Franco Mastantuono. He’s one of the few recognized forwards on the list along with Vinícius Júnior. With Mbappé and Rodrygo out, the teenager might actually get a significant run.
🔗 Read more: Ryan Suter: What Most People Get Wrong About the NHL's Ultimate Survivor
It’s weird seeing Real Madrid in this "transition-within-a-transition" phase. One week they’re fighting for a trophy in the desert, the next they’re firing a legendary midfielder-turned-coach and starting academy kids in the cup.
Actionable Tips for Following the Game
If you're trying to catch the action tonight or the Levante game this weekend, here is what you should do:
- Check the Local Broadcaster: In the US, the Copa del Rey is usually on ESPN+, while La Liga stays on ESPN/ESPN+. For the Champions League games against Monaco and Benfica, you'll need Paramount+.
- Watch the Lineups: Follow the official Real Madrid "X" account exactly 60 minutes before kickoff. Arbeloa's tactical setup is a mystery right now—will he stick to Alonso’s 4-3-3 or revert to something more "Spartan" like his playing days?
- Monitor the Training Reports: Keep an eye on Mbappé’s knee progress. If he isn't back for the Monaco game on the 20th, Madrid might struggle to find the net in Europe.
The "next game" isn't just a fixture; it's the start of the Arbeloa experiment. Whether it's a stroke of genius or a desperate stop-gap remains to be seen. But for now, get your snacks ready for tonight. 12:00 PM EST. Albacete vs. Real Madrid.
See you at kickoff.
Next Steps for Fans
- Sync your digital calendar: Update your Google or Apple calendar with the January 17th (Levante) and January 20th (Monaco) dates to ensure you don't miss the start of the Arbeloa era in La Liga and Europe.
- Monitor injury updates: Check the official medical reports on Friday morning for news on Rüdiger and Rodrygo, as their availability will drastically change the betting lines for the Levante match.