Real Madrid is eagerly preparing for a pivotal Champions League clash against Manchester City next month, as both sides are poised to enhance their squads significantly. According to MARCA, this encounter marks the third consecutive meeting in the knockout stages between the Spanish powerhouse and the English giants. The current scoreline stands at 1-1 between the two clubs. Real Madrid managed to surpass City in the 2021/2022 semifinals before clinching victory in the final against Liverpool. However, City struck back by defeating Madrid last season and claiming their inaugural Champions League title against Inter Milan.
Carlo Ancelotti, the coach of Real Madrid, has conveyed his optimism ahead of the impending showdown, underscoring the team’s unwavering determination to clinch the championship. While acknowledging Manchester City’s stature as one of Europe’s elite teams, Ancelotti stressed the necessity of conquering formidable adversaries like City to realize European glory. He refrained from showing favoritism towards either side, emphasizing the evenly matched nature of the impending clash.
Ancelotti emphasized the significance of approaching the quarterfinals with a sense of assurance while acknowledging the fluctuating fortunes experienced by both teams in past encounters. MARCA reports that Real Madrid is poised to welcome back two pivotal players, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and defender Eder Militao, who have recuperated from ACL injuries sustained earlier in the season. Although their availability for the quarterfinals remains unconfirmed, Madrid’s coaching staff harbors optimism regarding their participation against Manchester City.
In the absence of Courtois and Militao, substitutes Andriy Lunin and Antonio Rudiger have commendably stepped up, contributing to Real Madrid’s success both in La Liga and the Champions League.