72 hours before Man City, one bad news and two good news for Carlo Ancelotti

Real Madrid is gearing up for one of the biggest nights of their season as they prepare to face Manchester City in the second leg of the Champions League playoffs. With a 3-2 victory from the first leg at the Etihad Stadium, Los Blancos hold the advantage, but the challenge remains monumental as Pep Guardiola’s men look to overturn the deficit at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Carlo Ancelotti has received both positive and negative updates ahead of the crucial encounter. The good news comes in the form of defensive reinforcements. David Alaba and Antonio Rüdiger, who missed the first leg due to muscle injuries, are on track to return. According to Marca, both players are recovering well and are expected to be available for selection. This boost could prove vital as Madrid aims to neutralize City’s attacking firepower.

The return of Alaba and Rüdiger will be a huge relief for Ancelotti, who had to field an improvised backline at the Etihad. The lack of defensive stability was evident, with City constantly threatening Real Madrid’s goal. However, with the experience and composure of these two veterans, Madrid’s defense should be significantly more organized and resilient.

Unfortunately, not all news is good for Ancelotti. Lucas Vázquez remains a major doubt for the fixture. The Spanish full-back has yet to resume full training and was absent from Sunday’s session. The medical team is working tirelessly to get him fit in time, but his chances of making the squad look slim at this point.

With Vázquez unlikely to feature, Ancelotti may have to rely on Federico Valverde to fill in at right-back once again. The Uruguayan midfielder, known for his incredible versatility, has stepped up in various positions this season. His role in the defense will be crucial in containing Omar Marmoush, Manchester City’s newest signing, who dazzled in the Premier League over the weekend and is expected to start at the Bernabéu.

Valverde’s defensive discipline, coupled with his ability to push forward and contribute in attack, could be a decisive factor for Madrid. His battle against Marmoush will be one of the key matchups to watch as City look to exploit Madrid’s defensive vulnerabilities.

While Real Madrid’s defense gets a much-needed boost, their attack remains as formidable as ever. Vinícius Júnior, Jude Bellingham, and Rodrygo will once again be the primary threats, looking to capitalize on any spaces left by City’s aggressive playing style. The trio was instrumental in the first leg, and their link-up play will be essential in Madrid’s efforts to put the tie to bed.

Another key player to watch will be Raúl Asensio, who has been exceptional in recent weeks. The young midfielder’s energy and creativity have added a new dimension to Madrid’s play, and his presence could make life difficult for Guardiola’s midfield.

On the other side, Manchester City will come into this game with a clear plan: control possession and press high. Guardiola knows that Madrid is lethal on the counterattack, so he will likely instruct his players to minimize their defensive errors and keep the pressure on Madrid’s backline.

With Erling Haaland leading the line, City’s attacking threat cannot be underestimated. The Norwegian striker had a quiet first leg but will be desperate to make an impact in the return fixture. His physicality and finishing ability will be a major concern for Madrid’s defense.

The Santiago Bernabéu is set to witness yet another classic European night. With both teams boasting immense quality and tactical depth, this game has all the makings of a thrilling encounter. The atmosphere will be electric, and Madrid’s fans will play a huge role in pushing their team towards qualification.

Ancelotti, a master of high-pressure games, will have to make some tough decisions regarding his lineup and tactics. Whether he sticks with a more defensive approach or goes for an attacking setup will be interesting to see.

As the countdown to Wednesday night begins, all eyes will be on Madrid’s final preparations. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and with one bad news and two good news in their camp, Ancelotti and his men will be determined to make a statement and book their place in the next round of the Champions League.