Real Madrid Predicted Lineup vs. Manchester City: Champions League Showdown

Real Madrid is set to take on Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on February 11 in what promises to be another thrilling Champions League encounter. For the fifth time in the last six years, these two European giants will lock horns in the knockout stages, continuing a fierce rivalry that has delivered unforgettable moments.

The Spanish giants, who have dominated the Champions League with their record 14 titles, are looking to overcome one of their toughest challenges yet. Their recent history against City has been a mixed bag, with moments of brilliance balanced by painful defeats. However, Carlo Ancelotti’s men are determined to rewrite history by securing their first-ever win at the Etihad.

Real Madrid’s path to the knockout stage was far from smooth. A shaky start to their European campaign raised doubts, but they managed to regain momentum just in time. Their reward? A daunting clash with Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, the defending champions and one of the most dominant teams in Europe over the past few seasons.

Despite their prestige, Real Madrid faces an uphill battle, primarily due to a defensive crisis that has left them short on options. Injuries have ravaged Ancelotti’s backline, with key defenders like Antonio Rüdiger, David Alaba, Dani Carvajal, and Éder Militão all unavailable. The latest casualty is Lucas Vázquez, further depleting Madrid’s options and forcing the Italian tactician into an unorthodox setup.

Ancelotti has had no choice but to turn to midfielders to plug the gaps in defense. Against a Manchester City side boasting attacking firepower in the form of Erling Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne, and Phil Foden, this makeshift backline will need to deliver the performance of a lifetime.

Here’s how Real Madrid is expected to line up in their crucial first-leg clash at the Etihad.

Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):

Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois
Returning from injury, Courtois is expected to reclaim his spot between the posts. While Andriy Lunin was a standout performer in previous City encounters, Ancelotti will trust the Belgian’s experience and shot-stopping ability on this high-stakes occasion.

Right-Back: Fede Valverde
With Vázquez out, Ancelotti has opted to shift Valverde into the right-back role. The Uruguayan’s work rate and defensive awareness make him a solid choice, but it remains to be seen how he handles the threat of City’s dynamic wingers.

Center-Back: Raúl Asencio
The 21-year-old defender has been thrown into the deep end after impressing in domestic matches. His performance in the Madrid derby showed promise, but facing Erling Haaland at the Etihad is an entirely different challenge.

Center-Back: Aurélien Tchouaméni
A natural defensive midfielder, Tchouaméni has been repurposed as a center-back in Madrid’s injury crisis. The Frenchman’s composure on the ball and physical presence will be crucial, though he must be wary of picking up another yellow card, which would rule him out of the return leg at the Bernabéu.

Left-Back: Ferland Mendy
The French full-back returns to the starting XI, preferred over Fran García for his defensive solidity. With City’s attack likely to test Madrid’s left flank, Mendy’s positioning and tackling will be under scrutiny.

Defensive Midfielder: Eduardo Camavinga
After recovering from injury, Camavinga is expected to start in midfield. His ability to shield the defense while driving forward with the ball makes him a key figure in Madrid’s strategy.

Defensive Midfielder: Dani Ceballos
With Valverde shifting to defense, Ceballos gets the nod in midfield. The Spaniard will have to step up in the absence of his usual midfield partner and ensure Madrid’s engine room remains functional against City’s high-pressing approach.

Right-Winger: Rodrygo Goes
A player who thrives in big moments, Rodrygo has a special connection with the Champions League. His brace against City in the 2022 semifinals remains one of the most iconic moments in recent history, and Madrid fans will hope he can produce more magic.

Attacking Midfielder: Jude Bellingham
The English sensation will return to his home country looking to make a statement. His performances in the Champions League have been exceptional this season, and his ability to drive the attack while contributing defensively will be invaluable.

Left-Winger: Vinícius Júnior
Vinícius has struggled for consistency in recent weeks, but his explosive pace and dribbling make him a nightmare for any defense. If Madrid wants to break their Etihad curse, the Brazilian will need to rediscover his best form.

Striker: Kylian Mbappé
Madrid’s newest superstar, Mbappé, has already written himself into the history books with 500 goal contributions at just 25. Now, he faces the ultimate test against a City defense that rarely gives strikers an inch of space.

Final Thoughts:
Real Madrid enters this fixture as underdogs, not because of their lack of quality but due to the defensive crisis that has forced Ancelotti into a tactical reshuffle. Manchester City, playing at home and boasting a nearly full-strength squad, will look to capitalize on Madrid’s vulnerabilities.

However, Madrid’s pedigree in the Champions League is unmatched. They have pulled off miraculous comebacks before, and with players like Mbappé, Bellingham, and Vinícius in attack, they will always be a threat. The first leg at the Etihad will set the tone for this blockbuster tie, and if Madrid can secure a positive result, they will have every reason to believe they can finish the job at the Bernabéu.

All eyes will be on Manchester on February 11 as two of Europe’s biggest clubs go head-to-head. One thing is certain—the world is in for a Champions League classic.