Real Madrid face a significant defensive challenge as they prepare for tonight’s Champions League showdown against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.
The reigning champions aim to secure a favourable result to take back to the Santiago Bernabeu for the decisive second leg, but injuries have left their backline severely depleted
Dani Carvajal and Éder Militão are already sidelined for the season with knee injuries, while Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba have also been ruled out of the trip to Manchester.
Adding to the crisis, Lucas Vázquez has been forced out due to a hamstring issue, leaving Carlo Ancelotti with limited options.
“Following tests carried out on Lucas Vazquez by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with a muscle injury in his left hamstring, meaning he will not be in the squad to travel to Manchester,” a Real Madrid medical report read. “His recovery will be assessed.”
To address the defensive shortage, Ancelotti may turn to an unconventional lineup. Federico Valverde is expected to fill in at right-back, while Aurelien Tchouameni is likely to continue his makeshift centre-back role alongside young prospect Raul Asencio.
