Real Madrid is preparing for one of their most significant matches of the season as they get ready to take on Manchester City in the second leg of the Champions League playoffs. Having secured a 3-2 win in the first leg at the Etihad Stadium, Los Blancos enter the return fixture with an advantage. However, the challenge remains formidable, as Pep Guardiola’s side will be aiming to overturn the deficit at the Santiago Bernabéu.
As the match approaches, Carlo Ancelotti has received both encouraging and concerning updates regarding his squad. On the positive side, his defensive unit is set to receive a much-needed boost. David Alaba and Antonio RĂĽdiger, who were sidelined for the first leg due to muscle injuries, are making good progress in their recovery. According to reports from *Marca*, both players are expected to be fit in time for the game. Their return will be a major relief for Ancelotti, given the defensive struggles Madrid experienced at the Etihad.
In the previous match, Madrid’s defense appeared vulnerable, with City consistently applying pressure and creating dangerous opportunities. Without two of his key center-backs, Ancelotti had to improvise his defensive lineup, which resulted in a lack of stability at the back. The availability of Alaba and RĂĽdiger will provide Madrid with the experience and composure needed to deal with City’s relentless attack.
However, it’s not all good news for the Madrid camp. Lucas Vázquez remains a serious doubt for the clash. The Spanish full-back has yet to return to full training and was absent from the team’s practice session on Sunday. The club’s medical staff is working hard to speed up his recovery, but as things stand, his chances of making the squad appear slim.
With Vázquez unlikely to feature, Ancelotti may once again have to deploy Federico Valverde in the right-back position. The Uruguayan midfielder, known for his versatility, has already stepped into multiple roles this season. His ability to adapt will be crucial, particularly as he faces Manchester City’s latest acquisition, Omar Marmoush. The Egyptian forward delivered a stellar performance in the Premier League over the weekend and is expected to start at the Bernabéu.
Valverde’s defensive work rate and ability to contribute to the attack could be a deciding factor in the game. His duel with Marmoush will be a key battle, as City will attempt to exploit any weaknesses in Madrid’s defensive setup.
On the attacking front, Madrid remains as dangerous as ever. VinĂcius JĂşnior, Jude Bellingham, and Rodrygo will once again be the primary sources of threat, aiming to capitalize on any defensive gaps left by City’s high-pressing strategy. The trio was instrumental in Madrid’s first-leg victory, and their chemistry in the final third will be essential in securing a place in the next round.
Another key player to watch is Raúl Asensio, who has been in exceptional form recently. His dynamism and creativity have added another dimension to Madrid’s gameplay, and he could prove to be a major headache for Guardiola’s midfield.
On the other side, Manchester City will approach this game with a clear tactical plan: maintain possession and apply relentless pressure. Guardiola is well aware of Madrid’s counterattacking prowess and will likely instruct his players to limit errors at the back while keeping Madrid under constant defensive strain.
With Erling Haaland leading the line, City’s attacking presence remains formidable. The Norwegian striker had a quiet outing in the first leg but will be determined to leave his mark on the return fixture. His strength and clinical finishing ability pose a significant threat to Madrid’s defense.
The Santiago Bernabéu is set to host yet another classic European night, with two elite teams showcasing their quality and tactical brilliance. The atmosphere will be electric, with the Madrid supporters playing a crucial role in motivating their team.
Ancelotti, a master of handling high-stakes encounters, will need to make some critical decisions regarding his lineup and tactical approach. Whether he opts for a more defensive strategy or chooses to attack from the start will be an interesting aspect to watch.
With just a few days remaining before the showdown, Madrid’s final preparations will be under scrutiny. The stakes are incredibly high, and with one piece of bad news and two positive updates, Ancelotti and his squad will be fully focused on securing their place in the next round of the Champions League.
