Real Madrid got the job done at the weekend, winning the Copa del Rey. But there is very little time to reflect or celebrate. They will welcome Manchester City to Santiago Bernabeu in midweek, for the first leg of their Champions League semi-final tie. This might very well be the biggest test that Los Blancos have left this season.
Manchester City have been in terrific form this season. The two teams did meet in the same stage last season as well, with Real Madrid coming out on top, but Pep Guardiola’s side might be even better this season.
On the other hand, one should never count Real Madrid out. They have shown time after time, that they have the ability to win games, even when up against teams who might be much better on paper.
Some of Wayne Rooney’s recent comments did not go down too well with Real Madrid fans. The former Manchester United legend appears to believe that Manchester City will comfortably get through to the final of the Champions League. He wrote in his column in The Times:
"Manchester City will not just beat Real Madrid in their Champions League semi-final — they’ll blow them away."
Real Madrid superstar responds to Rooney
Toni Kroos is someone who is never afraid to speak his mind. And the German midfield maestro does not seem to be too concerned with what Rooney had to say.
As reported by AS, Kroos said when asked about Rooney’s take:
"“It was same a year ago, no one expected us to win. And we did. I heard Rooney’s comments, but others have said the same. It doesn’t affect us or motivate us any more, it’s impossible to be more motivated.”"
We will not have to wait for too long to find out what will happen when Real Madrid take on Manchester City. The two will meet at Santiago Bernabeu in midweek.
Of course, Real Madrid have all the reason in the world to be confident. Their record in two-legged ties and against English opposition, speaks for itself. At the same time though, they must be careful as well. Manchester City have a world-class player in the form of Erling Haaland, who they did not last season. The Norwegian superstar has looked absolutely unstoppable.