Pep Guardiola has unveiled the 21-man squad that will represent Manchester City in the highly anticipated UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg clash against Real Madrid. The English champions are set to lock horns with the Spanish giants at the iconic Santiago Bernabeu Stadium on Tuesday, April 9, with kick-off scheduled for 20:00pm (UK time).
Training Session
Following an intense morning training session at the City Football Academy (CFA), Guardiola, alongside his coaching staff and players, departed from Manchester for the Spanish capital in preparation for the crucial encounter. This marks the third consecutive season that Manchester City and Real Madrid have met in the knockout stages of the Champions League, adding an extra layer of anticipation to the fixture.
See also: Pep Guardiola Prioritizes Player Fitness Ahead of Real Madrid Clash
A Look at Previous Games
In their previous encounters, both teams have experienced the highs and lows of Champions League drama. Two years ago, Real Madrid emerged victorious, clinching a dramatic 6-5 aggregate victory over two legs in a pulsating semi-final showdown. However, last season saw a reversal of fortunes as Manchester City stormed to a commanding 5-1 aggregate triumph in the semi-finals, paving the way for their historic maiden Champions League title.
The Team Assembled by Guardiola
The travelling squad, meticulously assembled by Guardiola, features a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, all poised to make their mark on the European stage. Notable names include defensive stalwarts Ruben Dias and John Stones, midfield maestros Kevin De Bruyne and Bernardo Silva, as well as attacking sensation Erling Haaland and creative dynamo Phil Foden.
The squad list also includes rising stars such as Jeremy Doku, Rodrigo, and Scott Carson, highlighting Manchester City’s commitment to nurturing young talent alongside established stars. With depth and quality across all positions, Guardiola will have a wealth of options at his disposal as he formulates his tactics for the crucial showdown against Real Madrid.
Picture showing Erling Haaland training for the game head against Real Madrid (Photo Credit: Manchester City)
In Summary
As the stage is set for another thrilling chapter in the Manchester City-Real Madrid rivalry, anticipation continues to build among fans worldwide. With both teams vying for European glory, Tuesday’s clash promises to deliver an exhilarating spectacle of football at its finest.
Stay tuned for live updates and comprehensive coverage as Manchester City embarks on their quest for Champions League glory against the formidable Real Madrid.
