Manchester City’s poor form saw them struggle in the Champions League, failing to finish in the top eight. Despite this setback, they luckily secured 22nd place after a thrilling 3-1 victory against Club Brugge. As a result, they were paired with Real Madrid, who finished 10th in the table, for the knockout stage. Their struggles led the EPL giants to go all out during the January transfer window, making major signings to revamp their squad. City brought in four key players—Khusanov, Marmoush, Reis, and Nico González—to strengthen their aging and underperforming team.
Three of these signings—Khusanov, Marmoush, and Nico—were involved in last weekend’s Premier League fixture against Newcastle United, where they delivered outstanding performances. Their efforts contributed to an emphatic 4-0 victory over their rivals, a much-needed win following their painful 5-1 defeat to Arsenal. That humiliating loss forced manager Pep Guardiola to make changes, ensuring the three new arrivals started against Newcastle. Now, with their morale boosted, they will look to carry this momentum into their crucial match against Real Madrid on Wednesday at the Santiago Bernabéu.
City already trails 4-3 on aggregate after their first-leg defeat at the Etihad Stadium last Tuesday. This second leg will be a do-or-die encounter, as their visit to the home of the 14-time Champions League winners will determine their fate in the competition. Whether they advance to the Round of 16 or bow out in disappointment will depend on their determination and performance on the pitch. Their hard work will either pay off or leave them with heartbreak as they wait for another opportunity next season.
Manchester City’s Predicted Lineup Against Real Madrid
Following their first-leg defeat in the Champions League knockout stage, this is how we predict Manchester City will line up for the return fixture against Real Madrid. With the high stakes of this decisive match, Guardiola will treat this encounter with utmost seriousness. Their recent victory over Newcastle will serve as motivation as they prepare for this tough challenge. Based on their weekend success, City’s lineup is expected to include key performers who delivered outstanding displays.
Omar Marmoush, who scored a stunning 14-minute hat-trick against Newcastle, will retain his spot in the starting XI. Khusanov, who was a rock in defense and successfully nullified the threat of Alexander Isak while keeping a clean sheet, will also keep his place. Nico González, who controlled and organized the midfield effectively, will start again after showcasing his composure on the ball, passing ability, positional awareness, and tackling skills. Both Nico and Khusanov have a promising future ahead, with their performances proving their importance to the team.
Other players expected to retain their spots in the starting lineup include Ederson, John Stones, Josko Gvardiol, Phil Foden, Ilkay Gündogan, Savinho, and Erling Haaland. Meanwhile, Ruben Dias is set to return to the starting XI after missing the Newcastle clash. Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva, Mateo Kovačić, and Jérémy Doku will likely start from the bench, ready to make an impact if needed.
Predicted Starting XI:
Ederson (GK), Ruben Dias, John Stones, Josko Gvardiol, Phil Foden, Ilkay Gündogan, Savinho, Khusanov, Nico González, and Omar Marmoush.