Real Madrid capped off their triumphant La Liga campaign with a resounding 4-0 victory over relegated Granada, setting the stage for their title celebrations in the Spanish capital.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side, fresh from their midweek triumph over Bayern Munich in the Champions League, fielded a reserve-heavy lineup that proved too strong for the downtrodden Andalusians. Brahim Diaz led the charge with a brace, while Fran Garcia and Arda Guler also found the net for Los Blancos.
Despite securing their 36th Spanish title last weekend, Madrid opted to postpone their celebrations to focus on the Bayern clash. However, with the Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund looming, Ancelotti emphasized the importance of maintaining squad fitness.
“The objective is to arrive with the squad all at their best for the day of the final, and we will do it,” said Ancelotti.
While speculation swirls about the potential arrival of Kylian Mbappe, Ancelotti remained focused on the task at hand. “It’s not a topic I’m thinking about at the moment,” he added. “We have to celebrate tomorrow with our fans and until June 1 we know exactly what we have to think about.”
Granada, already relegated before kick-off, gave Real Madrid a guard of honor as the champions demonstrated their unwavering focus. The victory extended Madrid’s lead over second-placed Girona to 15 points.
Diaz opened the scoring in the 38th minute, followed by Garcia’s strike in stoppage time before the break. Guler added to the tally in the second half, and Diaz completed the rout with a neat finish after a team move.
Despite the absence of key players like Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior, Madrid maintained their dominance throughout the match. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois kept a clean sheet in his second game back from injury.
The remaining league fixtures will provide Ancelotti with an opportunity to rest and rotate his squad ahead of the Champions League final. They may also offer fans a last glimpse of Luka Modric, whose contract expires in the summer.
As Madrid prepares for their title parade on Sunday, Ancelotti hinted at repeating his iconic celebration from their last parade in 2022, complete with a cigar and sunglasses.
In contrast to Madrid’s joy, Granada players expressed their disappointment. “Thanks to the fans for being with us in this year in which we’ve done so badly, and sorry,” said Granada captain Carlos Neva.
