How Real Madrid could lineup against Manchester City in second leg of UCL quarter-finals?

Published at :April 16, 2024 at 4:35 PM

Modified at :April 16, 2024 at 11:36 PM

(Courtesy : Real Madrid)

Carlo Ancelotti would put up a strong lineup to take revenge for last year’s defeat at the Etihad

The winner of Wednesday’s Champions League quarter-final second leg between Manchester City and Real Madrid will likely be considered the frontrunner to claim the trophy at Wembley next month. The clash at the Etihad Stadium features arguably the two best teams on the continent, with the aggregate score currently level at 3-3 following an exhilarating first leg in Spain.

Both Real and City rallied from being a goal down to take the lead before Fede Valverde’s late strike equalized the score. If the second leg is anywhere near as enthralling, this matchup could be remembered as one of the Champions League’s classic encounters.

Many would have preferred to witness this showdown in the final itself, and few will dispute that the winner will emerge as the leading contender for European glory. Carlo could potentially put the following lineup against Manchester City at the Etihad.

Real Madrid Predicted lineup (Formation: 4-3-1-2)

GK: Andriy Lunin

The Ukrainian player, who transferred to the 13-time European champions from Zorya Luhansk for £7.3 million in 2020, has had an outstanding season with Los Blancos, securing 10 clean sheets in 19 appearances in the LaLiga so far. In the absence of Courtois, he has stood up for Real Madrid in all competitions and would likely play an important role in the second leg.

RB: Dani Carvajal

Dani Carvajal has played for the club for almost a decade now and his attacking and defensive abilities surely make him one of the most reliable players for Ancelotti at that position. His crossing ability and willingness to contribute to the team’s attacking play have made him a valuable asset in Real Madrid’s system. Carvajal has renewed his contract, now extending it until June 2025.

CB: Antonio Rudiger

Rudiger emerged as a key figure for Real Madrid in the first leg. Amidst the focus on the game’s attacking spectacle, Rudiger’s role in neutralizing Erling Haaland deserves recognition. He effectively contained the Norwegian star, preventing him from making a significant impact on the match. Rudiger has emerged as a crucial player for Real Madrid, especially considering the team’s injury struggles this season.

CB: Nacho

Nacho’s playing style is characterized by his defensive awareness, positional sense, and ability to read the game effectively. With Madrid dealing with centre-back injury woes and suspensions, he will be placed alongside Rudiger to control City’s attack.

LB: Ferland Mendy

Mendy is capable of contributing effectively in more advanced roles, showcasing his versatility and adaptability. He is known for his heroics during the 2021–22 Champions League semi-final second leg, he executed a crucial goal-line clearance in the 87th minute, denying Manchester City’s Jack Grealish a scoring opportunity and maintaining the scoreline at 0–1, and eventually helping Madrid to reach the final.

RCM: Federico Valverde

Valverde “El Pajarito” is renowned for his speed, endurance, industriousness, and proficiency in shooting, he is widely recognized as one of the premier midfielders globally. While primarily occupying the central midfield role, he is also adept at operating as a defensive midfielder, a right winger, and occasionally, a right-back. His versatility is something that separates him from other midfielders in the world. Valverde is the reason Madrid are alive in this tie, his beautifully connected volley in the 79th minute levelled the tie 3-3.

CM: Toni Kroos

Toni Kroos is a distinguished German footballer celebrated for his exceptional technical ability, tactical intelligence, and leadership qualities on the field. Primarily operating as a central midfielder, Kroos is renowned for his precise passing, vision, and ability to dictate the tempo of the game. He has scored over 100 goals in the Champions League and has renewed his contract till 2025. He has helped young players in midfield to grow while watching him play.

Also Read: How Manchester City could lineup against Real Madrid in second leg of UCL quarter-finals?

LCM: Eduardo Camavinga

The French international has played a vital role for Real Madrid this season, contributing significantly as they contend for both La Liga and the UEFA Champions League titles. Camavinga is expected to maintain his importance for France during the upcoming Euro 2024 in June, where they will compete in Germany. It was Camavinga’s shot which took a deflection and opened the scoring for Madrid in the first leg.

CAM: Jude Bellinngham

While Jude Bellingham may not have had a standout performance in the first leg, there’s no denying his world-class talent, he possesses the ability to make a decisive impact even when he’s not heavily involved throughout the game. Bellingham’s capability to match up against many of the Manchester City players will pose a challenge for them and disrupt their game plan, particularly on their home turf.

ST: Rodrygo

Rodrygo scored the second goal in the first leg and his impact extended beyond just scoring a goal; he consistently troubled Bernardo Silva on the flank and provided crucial defensive cover for Ferland Mendy. Rodrygo’s hunger to prove himself to Carlo Ancelotti is evident, and he is determined to make his mark before the season’s end.

ST: Vincius Jr

Vinicus Jr is regarded as one of the top players globally, he is renowned for his speed, goal-scoring efficiency, and skilful dribbling. He has seven goal contributions in the Champions League for Real Madrid this season, he provided the assist to Rodrygo which led Madrid to take the lead in the 15th minute of the match. The 23-year-old has been tearing it up at Madrid since he joined from Flamengo.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.