Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City is set to take on Real Madrid in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League play-off round at the Etihad Stadium. This clash marks the fourth consecutive season that these two European giants meet in the competition, further fueling their fierce rivalry.
Under UEFA’s new 36-team structure, Madrid finished 11th, while City secured the 22nd spot, setting up this high-stakes two-legged tie for a place in the Round of 16. Guardiola will be eager to avenge last season’s exit and will likely field his strongest available squad, especially with Real Madrid struggling with key injuries.
Manchester City Predicted Lineup vs Real Madrid
Guardiola has the luxury of a mostly fit squad and is expected to deploy a full-strength lineup despite Real Madrid’s defensive vulnerabilities. With the Spanish side often finding ways to bounce back, City will aim to dominate midfield and control possession to avoid giving Madrid any breathing space.
A major concern for Guardiola was the availability of Nico González, who suffered an injury in his debut. However, the young midfielder has returned to training and could be fit in time for the showdown.
🔵 Predicted Starting XI (4-2-3-1 Formation)
🧤 Goalkeeper:
- Stefan Ortega (Ederson remains doubtful due to injury concerns.)
🛡️ Defense:
- Matheus Nunes (Right-back, offering versatility)
- Manuel Akanji (Center-back, solid and composed)
- Ruben Dias (Center-back, the leader in defense)
- Josko Gvardiol (Left-back, strong in both defense and attack)
⚙️ Midfield:
- Nico González (Deep-lying playmaker, if fit)
- Mateo Kovacic (Ball carrier, providing stability in midfield)
🔥 Attack:
- Phil Foden (Right-wing, crucial for creativity)
- Kevin De Bruyne (Central attacking midfielder, City’s biggest playmaker)
- Savinho (Left-wing, adding pace and unpredictability)
- Erling Haaland (Striker, City’s primary goal threat)
Manchester City Injury News & Updates
While City enjoys a relatively healthy squad, several key players remain doubtful or ruled out:
🚑 Injury Concerns:
- Nico González (returned to training, fitness to be assessed before kickoff)
- Oscar Bobb (leg injury, unlikely to feature)
- Nathan Ake (muscle issue, doubtful for the match)
- Jeremy Doku (unspecified injury, fitness uncertain)
- Ederson (remains a doubt; Ortega expected to start)
- Rodri (ACL injury, out for the foreseeable future)
Can City Secure a Crucial First-Leg Victory?
With Real Madrid missing key defenders, Guardiola’s side has a golden opportunity to capitalize on their opponent’s weaknesses and take an early advantage in the tie. However, Madrid’s resilience in the Champions League means City cannot afford to be complacent.
If Haaland, De Bruyne, and Foden fire on all cylinders, City could take a commanding lead before the second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu. The question remains—can Guardiola’s side finally get the better of Madrid on their way to another deep Champions League run? Fans eagerly await what promises to be a thrilling European night at the Etihad.
