Manchester City vs Real Madrid: Predicted City lineup and latest team news ahead of tonight’s clash | OneFootball

Coming up tonight for Manchester City is the UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg against Real Madrid. A blockbuster match awaits at the Bernabeu between the current European champions and the 14-time winners of the Champions League. How is the Manchester City squad shaping up, and what lineup could Pep Guardiola select for tonight’s big game?

Manchester City team news

Pep Guardiola confirmed during his pre-game press conference that Nathan Ake and Kyle Walker will miss tonight’s game due to injury. The pair haven’t come up in time for the clash with Real Madrid. A definitive timeline hasn’t been provided on their return from injury. BBC reporter Simon Stone did report yesterday via his official X account that Walker has begun training on his own in positive news for the world champions.

Josko Gvardiol remains in doubt for tonight’s encounter with Real Madrid. Pep Guardiola told the media that the Croatian defender is in doubt for the game despite travelling with the City squad to Madrid. It may not be known until the starting lineups are announced if Gvardiol has come up in time to play at the Bernabeu.

Predicted Manchester City starting lineup

Ederson- It would be cruel for Stefan Ortega to not start tonight’s game. He has shone in goal for City since Ederson picked up a thigh injury against Liverpool. But it does seem that Pep Guardiola will call on Ederson given his ability on the ball and experience given what’s at stake tonight.

Manuel Akanji- With Kyle Walker out, the Swiss international appears the ideal option for the right-back role. Akanji has the pace and defensive acumen to face off with Vinicius Junior. It could be a pivotal duel in tonight’s game.

John Stones- The England international appears an automatic starter given City’s defensive injuries.

Ruben Dias- Another obvious selection. He will have to be at his best at the back against Real Madrid’s potent attack.

Rico Lewis- It could be a huge moment for the youngster. He has shown previously that the big occasions don’t phase him, and he will need to show that tonight if he is given the nod to start.

Rodri- He was below his best against Crystal Palace but is an automatic selection.

Bernardo Silva- It would appear to be between Bernardo and Mateo Kovacic for the role to support Rodri. Given Bernardo’s record in big games, he would appear to be the obvious choice.

Phil Foden- Foden was rested against Crystal Palace but should return to the starting lineup tonight. He is having the best season of his career and will be an important part of City’s setup against Real.

Kevin De Bruyne- Fresh off a brace and an assist against Crystal Palace De Bruyne will likely start at the Bernabeu.

Jack Grealish- He has looked back to his best during City’s past two wins over Aston Villa and Crystal Palace. Should line up on the left wing tonight.

Erling Haaland– He appears the obvious selection up front for the world champions. Haaland looms large over tonight’s game. If he’s at his best, it will go a long in helping City pick up a positive result.