Real Madrid is preparing for a crucial Champions League showdown against Manchester City next month, with both teams planning significant reinforcements to their squads.
According to MARCA, this encounter between the Spanish and English powerhouses will mark their third consecutive meeting in the knockout stages.
The current record stands at 1-1 between the two clubs, with Real Madrid narrowly defeating City in the 2021/2022 semifinals before clinching victory in the final against Liverpool.
However, City retaliated by overcoming Madrid last season and securing their inaugural Champions League title against Inter Milan.
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has expressed optimism ahead of the clash, emphasizing the team’s determination to win the competition.
While acknowledging City’s stature as one of Europe’s elite teams, Ancelotti stressed the need to overcome formidable opponents like City to achieve success in Europe.
Ancelotti refrained from favoring either side in the upcoming match, highlighting the evenly matched nature of the contest.
He emphasized the importance of approaching the quarterfinals with confidence and acknowledged the fluctuating fortunes of both teams in previous encounters.
According to MARCA, Real Madrid is set to welcome back two key players, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and defender Eder Militao, who have recovered from ACL injuries earlier in the season.
Although their availability for the quarterfinals is not confirmed, Madrid’s coaching staff is hopeful about their involvement against Manchester City.
In the absence of Courtois and Militao, substitutes Andriy Lunin and Antonio Rudiger have performed commendably, contributing to Real Madrid’s success in La Liga and the Champions League.
The return of Courtois and Militao will bolster the squad’s depth and provide a morale boost as they face the reigning Premier League champions.
Overall, the quarterfinal clash between Real Madrid and Manchester City promises to be a captivating encounter, with both teams eager to secure a berth in the next round of the Champions League.
The comeback of Courtois and Militao adds further intrigue to the match as Real Madrid continues its pursuit of European glory.
