The semi-final tie between Manchester City and Real Madrid is expected to be a tight one. Of course, the two teams played out an all-time classic last season in the same stage of the competition. For 180 minutes, it had looked like Los Blancos were on their way out but then Rodrygo cropped up with goals in the 90th and 91st minute to take it to extra-time, where Karim Benzema scored the winner.
This time around, Manchester City have a different team though. While overall they look a bit weaker, they do have an ace up their sleeve in the form of Erling Haaland.
The Norwegian striker has been unstoppable this season and if Real Madrid are to reach the final, they will have to find a way to stop him in front of goal. On the other hand, Manchester City have been handed defensive blow just a couple weeks before the first leg at Santiago Bernabeu.
Nathan Ake seems to be struggling with an injury. The Dutchman has been a key player for Manchester City this season. He has been ruled out of the important game against Arsenal. And is a doubt to face Real Madrid.
Manchester City suffer blow before facing Real Madrid
As reported by GOAL, Pep Guardiola said about the situation of Ake:
"“Hopefully he can come back soon but for tomorrow he is out. Don’t know about Madrid.”"
Ake had faced struggles in his first couple of seasons at Manchester City. So much so that he was heavily linked with a move away. But this time around, he has finally nailed down a spot in Guardiola’s team and been a key contributor for the Citizens. He has the ability to play at both centre-back and left-back.
Thus, if Ake does end up missing the first leg against Real Madrid, and potentially even the second as there is just a week gap between the two, then it would be a blow to Manchester City’s hopes in the Champions League.