Tonight, Manchester City face Real Madrid in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-final.
A thrilling clash is on the horizon at the Bernabeu, pitting the reigning European champions against the formidable 14-time Champions League winners.
As anticipation builds, how is the Manchester City squad preparing, and which players might feature in Pep Guardiola’s lineup for this pivotal match?
Manchester City team news.
Pep Guardiola confirmed in his pre-game press conference that Nathan Ake and Kyle Walker will be absent from tonight’s match due to injury.
They have not recovered in time for the showdown against Real Madrid, and there’s no definite timeline for their return.
BBC reporter Simon Stone mentioned yesterday that Walker has started training individually, which is a positive development.
There’s uncertainty surrounding Josko Gvardiol’s availability for tonight’s game against Real Madrid.
Guardiola informed the media that the Croatian defender’s participation is questionable despite traveling with the City squad to Madrid.
It remains unclear whether Gvardiol will be fit to play at the Bernabeu until the starting lineups are announced.
Predicted starting XI
Ederson.
It would be harsh not to give Stefan Ortega the start tonight, considering his standout performances in goal for City since Ederson’s thigh injury against Liverpool.
However, Pep Guardiola seems inclined to rely on Ederson for his ball-playing skills and experience, especially given the stakes of tonight’s match.
Manuel Akanji.
With Kyle Walker sidelined, the Swiss international emerges as the ideal choice for the right-back position. Akanji possesses the pace and defensive prowess needed to contend with Vinicius Junior, making their potential duel crucial in tonight’s game.
John Stones.
Given City’s defensive injuries, the England international seems like an automatic starter.
Ruben Dias.
Another clear-cut selection, Dias will need to be at his best to hold off Real Madrid’s formidable attack.
Rico Lewis.
This could be a significant opportunity for the youngster, who has demonstrated composure in big moments before. If given the chance to start, he’ll need to showcase that same resolve tonight.
Rodri.
Despite a subpar performance against Crystal Palace, Rodri remains a certain starter.
Bernardo Silva.
The choice between Bernardo and Mateo Kovacic to support Rodri seems to lean towards Bernardo, given his track record in big matches.
Phil Foden.
Rested against Crystal Palace, Foden is expected to return to the starting lineup tonight. Having his best season yet, he’ll be a key component of City’s strategy against Real.
Kevin De Bruyne.
Coming off a stellar performance with a brace and an assist against Crystal Palace, De Bruyne is likely to feature prominently at the Bernabeu.
Jack Grealish.
Showing signs of returning to form in City’s recent victories over Aston Villa and Crystal Palace, Grealish should occupy the left wing tonight.
Erling Haaland.
The obvious choice up front for the reigning champions, Haaland’s performance will heavily influence City’s chances tonight. If he’s in top form, it could greatly contribute to a positive outcome for City.
