Three Real Madrid players injury doubts vs Manchester City

Real Madrid could only manage a 1-1 draw against Manchester City in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final tie at Santiago Bernabeu. As a result, they will have all to play for in the second leg away from home, as they chase their fifteenth European crown. On the other hand, Pep Guardiola’s side still search for their first one.

At this stage, it does feel like Manchester City have a slight advantage going into the second leg. They will have the home advantage and that has proven to be vital in cup competitions over the years.

At the same time though, it would be a mistake to count this Real Madrid side out in any situation. They have the experience of dealing with every kind of challenge and are the defending European champions for a reason.

Real Madrid have been handed a worry though. As it looks like three of their key players picked up knocks in the first leg against Manchester City.

Three Real Madrid players injury doubts vs Manchester City

As reported by Football Espana, Carlo Ancelotti said while speaking with the press:

"“We have some doubts with some footballers who received knocks in Tuesday’s game, Benzema, Alaba and Rodrygo have still not recovered. Ceballos and Mendy return, they can play tomorrow. The team is good and motivated to win tomorrow.”"

The Italian further went on to add about the situation:

"“The players who have doubts in tomorrow’s game are not going to play… and the mission is to recover them for that game. The physical ‘issue’ does not exist.”"

One would hope that this is all just precautionary and that the likes of Karim Benzema, Rodrygo and David Alaba are fit enough to feature against Manchester City. All three are important in Ancelotti’s plans and are expected to have key parts to play on the day.

The most important will be the fitness of Benzema. The club do not have any real back up to him and will have to alter their system, if the Frenchman misses out. Rodrygo and Alaba have been excellent in recent times as well. Let’s just hope that all three are available when they take to the pitch against Manchester City in midweek.