Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has made a bold prediction ahead of his team’s Champions League knockout round playoff tie against Manchester City.
The Italian believes that the winner of this tie will go on to lift the coveted Champions League trophy.
A Familiar Foe
This is the fourth consecutive season that Real Madrid and Man City will face off in the Champions League knockout rounds.
In each of the last three campaigns, the winner of this tie has gone on to win the competition.
Ancelotti acknowledged the significance of this tie, saying: “It seems like it’s a Clasico because we have played each other a lot of times in this competition.”
A Nightmare to Prepare For
Ancelotti also praised Man City manager Pep Guardiola, saying: “They are one of the best teams in Europe and they have the best manager out there.
ALSO READ:Guardiola and Ancelotti Address Ballon d’Or Controversy Ahead of Champions League Clash
It’s a nightmare preparing for games against him because he always has ideas that make you think.”
Injury Crisis for Real Madrid
Real Madrid will have to navigate this tie without several key defenders, including Lucas Vazquez, Antonio Rudiger, David Alaba, Eder Militao, and Dani Carvajal.
Young defender Raul Asencio is set to partner Aurelien Tchouameni in central defense, with Tchouameni moving out of his preferred midfield position to provide cover.
A High-Stakes Clash
The first leg of this tie will take place at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday, with the return leg scheduled for next Wednesday at the Santiago Bernabeu.
With Ancelotti’s prediction hanging in the balance, both teams will be desperate to come out on top in this high-stakes clash.
