Real Madrid is gearing up for a high-stakes clash against Manchester City, a rivalry that manager Carlo Ancelotti now equates to a Clásico. This match-up, often pivotal in determining the Champions League winner, has become one of the most anticipated fixtures in European football. Real Madrid has faced Manchester City in the semifinals or quarterfinals of the Champions League several times in recent years. The Spanish giants clinched the title in 2022 and 2024 after eliminating City, while Manchester City lifted the trophy in 2023 after defeating Real Madrid.
Ancelotti acknowledges the formidable challenge posed by Manchester City, describing them as the "most difficult rival, the most important rival, and the best manager." Despite City's current struggles, ranking fifth in the Premier League, Ancelotti maintains his respect for their manager, Pep Guardiola. Ancelotti praises Guardiola as an innovator who brings novel strategies to his team.
"He's a coach who always tries to bring something new to his team," Ancelotti stated. "He's done a lot for football in terms of possession, pressing, playing out from the back. He's an innovator. I have a lot of respect for him… It's always a nightmare preparing for the game."
Real Madrid faces its own challenges with an injury crisis that has sidelined key defenders Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, Antonio Rüdiger, and David Alaba. This adds to the complexity of facing a team like Manchester City, renowned as one of Europe's best. Nevertheless, Real Madrid's forward Rodrygo remains optimistic despite acknowledging mixed emotions about past encounters with City.
"I was talking two or three days to [midfielder] Fede Valverde, about the game against City," said Rodrygo. "I asked him if we'd ever feel that emotion again. It was the most special night of my career… Sometimes I've been happy playing against [City], other times not so much. I'm in good form and I can be decisive. But I try to be decisive in every game, not just against City."
Rodrygo's pivotal role in Real Madrid's success against City in 2022, where he scored twice in a minute to help his team progress, remains a highlight of his career. That season's semifinal was particularly dramatic, with Manchester City achieving a 6-5 aggregate victory, including a memorable 3-1 win in the second leg with all three goals coming in added time.
As Real Madrid prepares for another encounter with Manchester City, Ancelotti reflects on the evolution of their rivalry.
"It feels like a Clásico now, because we've played them now for many years," Ancelotti remarked.
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