Carlo Ancelotti’s reign as Real Madrid manager will kick off with a friendly match on the south coast of England after the club added a new fixture to the pre-season calendar.
Los Blancos will take on Bournemouth on July 21 in a match designed to celebrate the home team’s promotion to the Championship.
It means the Spanish giants will have a busy schedule at the end of the month, as they take on Lyon in France three days later, and PSG in Gothenburg on July 27, before commencing their four-match tour of the USA.
Real are expected to take a strong side to the Goldsands Stadium, with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modric and Mezut Ozil all expected to be present. Having got used to playing in huge stadiums across the world, it may come as a shock to the star-studded side to play infront of just 10,700 people.
Speaking of his side’s match against their more glamorous opponents, Bournemouth chairman Eddie Mitchell said: “Real Madrid are at the pinnacle of global sport and to host them will be an honour for the squad, management and supporters of AFC Bournemouth. We are honoured to have been chosen”
Emilio Butragueno, Real Madrid director, stated: “The friendly match will be a fantastic opportunity for both teams and we are looking forward to travelling to Bournemouth and to the Goldsands Stadium. We look forward the challenge presented to us by our English opponents.”
