Real Madrid has named its starting lineup for the Champions League round of 16 playoff first leg against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.
With both clubs among the favorites to lift the trophy, this high-stakes encounter is set to be a thrilling battle between European giants.
Real Madrid’s Starting XI vs. Manchester City
Carlo Ancelotti has opted for an aggressive lineup, featuring a star-studded attack led by Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Rodrygo. The midfield will be anchored by Jude Bellingham, Tchouaméni, and Ceballos, while Thibaut Courtois returns to the starting eleven after his long injury layoff.
Starting Lineup for Real Madrid:
- Goalkeeper: Courtois
- Defenders: Mendy, Camavinga, Asencio, Valverde
- Midfielders: Tchouaméni, Ceballos, Bellingham
- Forwards: Rodrygo, Vinícius Júnior, Mbappé
Substitutes: Lunin, Modrić, Arda Güler, Endrick, Vallejo, Fran García, Brahim, Gonzalo, Jacobo, Chema, Lorenzo.
Starting Lineup for Manchester City:
CITY XI: Ederson, Akanji, Dias, Ake, Gvardiol, Stones, De Bruyne (C), Bernardo, Savinho, Grealish, Haaland
Subs: Ortega Moreno, Marmoush, Kovacic, Doku, Nico, Gundogan, Nunes, Khusanov, Foden, O’Reilly, Lewis, McAtee
Tactical Breakdown
Ancelotti’s selection suggests an emphasis on speed and direct attacking play. With the trio of Mbappé, Vini Jr., and Rodrygo, Madrid will look to exploit City’s defensive gaps in transition. The midfield combination of Bellingham, Tchouaméni, and Ceballos provides a balance of creativity, physicality, and control, while Camavinga’s defensive versatility could be key in stopping City’s fluid attack.
A Renewed European Rivalry
This fixture has become one of the marquee clashes in modern Champions League history. Real Madrid and Manchester City have faced each other in four consecutive seasons, with unforgettable moments, including Rodrygo’s late heroics in 2022 and last season’s dramatic penalty shootout.
Manchester City, led by Pep Guardiola, remains unbeaten at home in this competition and boasts the lethal Erling Haaland, who has already netted six goals this campaign. Their inconsistent form in the league phase, however, gives Madrid confidence heading into this encounter.
What’s at Stake?
This playoff format adds extra significance to the tie. Real Madrid will aim to secure a strong result in Manchester before the second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu on February 19. With the attacking firepower on display, fans can expect a match filled with intensity, drama, and potential game-changing moments.
Who do you think will come out on top? Share your predictions below!
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