The latest Champions League clash between Real Madrid and Manchester City sees an injury-riddled, under-pressure Madrid side, potentially missing Kylian Mbappé, host a determined Man City led by the prolific Erling Haaland.
Real Madrid and Manchester City renew their Champions League “Superclasico” rivalry at the Santiago Bernabéu, with the stakes exceptionally high for both sides.
The fixture is deemed potentially pivotal for Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso, who is under intense pressure following a 2-0 loss to Celta Vigo.
Man City, despite their own inconsistency, arrive buoyed by three successive domestic wins.
Madrid enters the clash with a crippling defensive injury crisis, with Dani Carvajal, Ferland Mendy, and Éder Militão all sidelined.
The team’s woes are compounded by the major injury doubt surrounding star striker Kylian Mbappé. This depleted defense, missing multiple key players, faces the difficult task of containing City’s attacking threat.
Manchester City arrives determined to correct course in Europe after a recent defeat to Bayer Leverkusen.
The visitors are missing key midfielders Rodri and Mateo Kovačić, but boast Erling Haaland, whose record against Spanish sides is prolific (nine goals in nine games). City’s deep, well-rested squad gives Pep Guardiola an opportunity to exploit Madrid’s defensive vulnerability.
Addressing the intense pressure, Alonso insisted on unity: “We know this can change, from the anger there was (on Sunday), normal, to the excitement about (facing City).”
Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola showed sympathy for Alonso but disagreed that Madrid was vulnerable. With both teams needing points, a high-scoring encounter is predicted at the Bernabéu.