Lorca after the earthquake |
The presence of Real Madrid will not be testimonial. The call includes all the players available with the exception of the Argentine international players, who are already preparing the Copa America. The expedition, led by Florentino Pérez, Jorge Valdano and Emilio Butragueno has landed in San Javier Airport at 11:30 am and will spend two hours in Lorca; First before the game kicks-off, Real Madrid players will visit areas affected by the earthquake for a first-hand look at the damages caused, then a reception at City Hall.
And on the pitch, Mourinho will give minutes to all players in the squad (including Pedro León, local hero), although the starting lineup will not be very different from the last games of the season. That is, many stars and Cristiano Ronaldo.
What today is much more than a football game. It is an act of solidarity with the city of Lorca, shaken last week by a double earthquake that left nine dead and 300 wounded. The event is a tribute to an city and its inhabitants and, later, a sports festival. Football at the service of people. And as ambassador of football, Real Madrid. Just like all times.