It’s not a good time to be a Real Madrid fan. Los Blancos are less than 48 hours before their visit to the Etihad as they take on defending champions Manchester City in the 2nd leg of the Champions League quarterfinals. The team is up against the odds, and their challenge might have gotten even tighter. Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola provided a fresh update on his team heading into the game, and it seems like the defending champions are preparing to bring everything to Etihad!
Guardiola addressed the media alongside Bernardo Silva ahead of the game against Madrid. The Manchester City boss seemed jovial as he touched down on his team, heading into the fixture. Skipper Kyle Walker, who has been out since the international break, could be in line for a return against Carlo Ancelotti’s side. Talking about Walker’s availability, Guardiola stated, “Trains good, feels something, but feels good in his face and mood. I don’t know from the beginning or bench, but I think he’ll be with us.”
BREAKING: Kyle Walker's availability for #ManCity vs Real Madrid will be assessed in training this afternoon, says Pep Guardiola.
Pep: "Trains good, feels something, but feels good in his face and mood. I don't know from the beginning or bench but I think he'll be with us…"
— City Xtra (@City_Xtra) April 16, 2024
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Meanwhile, Nathan Ake and Kevin De Bruyne are also expected to be back with the Manchester City squad. De Bruyne missed the first leg against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu after falling sick at the last moment before the game. However, the player seems to have recovered, with the Belgian putting on an impressive display against Luton earlier this week. Ake, on the other hand, has also recovered after picking up a knock against Arsenal last month and could be on the bench against Real Madrid.
Manchester City eye a spot in the semifinals as Real Madrid clash looms on the horizon
The defending UCL champions have a lot on their plate following the recent results this week. Manchester City is again at the top of the Premier League standings after both Arsenal and Liverpool dropped points. However, the team needs to turn their attention to the upcoming clash against Real Madrid, with a lot on the line. Pep Guardiola’s side is in line for a consecutive treble this season, and the first step would be to get a win over Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid.
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The first leg between the two sides ended in a 3-3 draw, with both teams scoring some sensational goals. Manchester City will surely fancy their chances with the second leg held at home. The team has been unbeaten at the Etihad in their last 36 fixtures in Europe, turning the stadium into a fortress. A win over Madrid will see the team secure a place in the semifinals, where they will face the winner of the clash between Bayern Munich and Arsenal.
Do you think Manchester City can get a win over Real Madrid this Wednesday? Let us know in the comments below.