Mallorca defender reveals plan to stop Real Madrid forward: ‘I will ask Pablo Maffeo’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s upcoming trip to Son Moix will be of extreme importance for Los Blancos in the La Liga title race.

In that regard, Mallorca defender Antonio Sanchez has made it clear that the hosts are ready to challenge the Spanish giants with all their might.

Speaking in a recent interview with AS, Sanchez shared his thoughts on facing Real Madrid, a fixture that arrives at a demanding point in the season for the visitors.

Preparing for the Real Madrid clash

The 28-year-old defender pointed towards the timing of the match as a potential advantage. 

With Real Madrid juggling multiple competitions, including European commitments, Sanchez believes his side could capitalise.

“It’s both challenging and exciting to play against Madrid, and if there’s ever a time to take them on, though you never know if that’s a good or bad thing, it’s now, with a week off for us and a Champions League match for them. 

“I’m really looking forward to seeing how the game plays out because I feel like we can give them a run for their money.”

How to stop Vinicius Jr.

Vinicius Jr. and Pablo Maffeo have had fiery encounters in the past. (Photo by Rafa Babot/Getty Images)

One of the biggest threats Mallorca will have to deal with is Vinicius Jr., who is unlikely to start against Mallorca, owing to excessive fatigue. 

In any case, the Real Madrid winger has consistently been a difference-maker, and Sanchez admitted that containing him is no easy task.

“If that situation were to arise, which I don’t know, the first thing I’d do is ask Pablo Maffeo, who’s done very well when he’s had to, or Mateu Jaume for some advice, because they have more experience with this.”

Lastly, Mallorca’s preparation for the match has also been intense under new manager Martin Demichelis. 

The team has used the break to focus on physical and tactical readiness, aiming to be fully prepared for the challenge.

“It’s been tough. We’ve been working hard, which is good, but it’s been a solid week of training,” he concluded.