Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has already decided on his playing XI that would take the field against Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League quarter-final second-leg tie.
The journalist mentions that the Italian will revert to his usual 4-3-1-2 setup and the only change will be the inclusion of Nacho, who will replace the suspended Aurelien Tchouameni.
The rest of the defence will consist of Ferland Mendy, Antonio Rudiger and Dani Carvajal. The midfield, on the other hand, will feature Toni Kroos, Eduardo Camaving and Federico Valverde.
Starboy Jude Bellingham will return to his advanced role after having played in a deeper position in the first leg while the likes of Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo will continue to lead the charge.
A game with a lot at stakes
Real Madrid continues to rely on their rich history to secure a crucial victory against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday.
Historically, the Los Blancos have struggled on this ground, failing to secure a win in their past five visits.
Real Madrid’s playing XI vs Manchester City.
Their record includes two draws and three losses, the most recent defeat being in the semi-finals of the previous edition, where they suffered a resounding 4-0 loss after a 1-1 draw in the first leg.
On the other hand, Real Madrid are not supported by the fact that Pep Guardiola’s side has turned the Etihad into a formidable stronghold, with their last Champions League defeat at the venue dating back to September 2018, when they were defeated by Lyon during the group stage.
Pep is Madrid’s nightmare
Ever since Guardiola joined Manchester City, he has faced off against Real Madrid a total of seven times and this Wednesday marks the eighth encounter between them.
So far, the tally stands at four wins for Guardiola’s side, two draws, and just one defeat. Across these matches, they have netted 17 goals while conceding 12.
In those head-to-head battles, Guardiola’s team managed to knock out Real Madrid twice: once in the round of 16 during the 2019/20 season, and again in the semifinals of the 2022/23 season.
However, in the semifinals of the 2021/22 season, it was Real Madrid who emerged victorious. Now, as they face each other again this Wednesday, the outcome of this fourth-round clash is eagerly awaited.