Predicted Teams Manchester City-Real Madrid: Will Carlo Ancelotti spring a surprise in defence?

Manchester City and Real Madrid face off in the Champions League for the fourth consecutive year, with the winner of their tie having lifted the trophy in the past three seasons.

Both teams have significant injury concerns. Real Madrid are missing Eder Militao, David Alaba, Antonio Rudiger, Dani Carvajal, and Lucas Vazquez, forcing Carlo Ancelotti to consider Fede Valverde at right-back and Aurelien Tchouameni in central defense.

Their attack is expected to feature Kylian Mbappe, Rodrygo, Jude Bellingham, and Vinicius Junior.

Manchester City are without Nathan Ake, Jeremy Doku, Rodri, Matheus Nunes, and Oscar Bobb. Pep Guardiola will rely on a familiar lineup, with Savinho expected to exploit Real Madrid’s makeshift defense.

City may seek to dominate possession to neutralize Madrid’s counter-attacking threat.