Real Madrid 2026/27 Preseason Schedule

European‑Only Preseason Plan

Real Madrid have finalised preparations for the 2026‑27 campaign, opting for a compact pre‑season staged entirely on the continent. The club has lined up four official friendlies before the competitive season kicks off, with the possibility of a fifth closed‑door match still under consideration. This shift away from overseas travel is a direct response to the postponed La Liga opener, giving the squad extra time to train at Valdebebas. By staying in Europe, the Spaniards also avoid long flights while still securing high‑quality tests.

Starting With Austria

The pre‑season schedule opens on August 1 with a trip to Austria, echoing last year’s summer fixture there. The move reflects a growing preference for nearby venues that provide both exposure and convenience. Coach José Mourinho’s team will use the Austrian leg as a preliminary tune‑up before the more prestigious contests. The Austria friendly also signals continuity in a recent tactical philosophy of regional preparation.

Teresa Herrera Trophy Confirmed

One headline fixture is already locked in: the Teresa Herrera Trophy against newly‑promoted Deportivo La Coruña. This trophy provides a high‑profile platform for Mourinho to evaluate depth players ahead of the league campaign. In addition to the trophy match, Real Madrid has arranged three other friendlies split between Spain and other European countries. Officials are also weighing a fifth, private friendly reminiscent of last summer’s closed‑door clash with Leganés. The added match could be used to squeeze extra minutes into the squad’s final conditioning phase.

Strategic Reasons Behind No USA Tour

Unlike previous summers, Real Madrid will not travel to the United States this year. The decision stems from a desire to keep the group closer to home and maximize preparation at the club’s training complex in Valdebebas. Early discussions had floated a short camp in northern Europe, but internal talks settled on the familiar base. By staying in Europe, Mourinho can focus on tactical drills without the disruption of trans‑Atlantic logistics.

Impact of the Postponed Opener

The league’s opening fixture postponement created extra days that the club is now leveraging. Rather than extending a traditional overseas tour, Real Madrid turned the breathing room into a deeper pre‑season camp. The squad will not start competitive action until the second matchday, when they host Espanyol on August 23. This later kickoff gives Mourinho additional time to fine‑tune formations and integrate new signings.

Real Madrid are planning to play four pre-season matches this summer. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)