It seems like Man City has the edge against Madrid.
Image credit: Premier League
Manchester City’s Champions League campaigns in recent years have often started with routine victories over lesser opposition.
However, this season presents a unique challenge as Pep Guardiola’s side faces Real Madrid in the play-off round after a turbulent League Phase.
Despite City’s struggles, Madrid also have weaknesses that could tilt the tie in the Premier League champions’ favor.
According to Goal.com, here are six reasons why City can edge past the 15-time European champions:
1. Madrid’s Defense Is in Shambles
Injuries have ravaged Real Madrid’s backline. Antonio Rüdiger, who played a key role in last season’s quarter-final against City, is sidelined with a hamstring injury.
Eder Militão is out for the season with a cruciate ligament tear, and David Alaba has suffered another setback after recently recovering from a long-term knee injury.
With only one natural center-back available—21-year-old Raúl Asencio—Madrid will likely deploy midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni as an emergency defender.
Man City just edge their head-to-head meetings with Real Madrid 👀🏆 pic.twitter.com/x5l91USRMa
— OneFootball (@OneFootball) February 11, 2025
The situation worsens at full-back, with Dani Carvajal and Lucas Vázquez also struggling with injuries.
City’s attack, led by a refreshed Erling Haaland, could exploit this defensive crisis.
2. Vinícius Jr. Has Lost His Spark
Madrid’s Brazilian star has been struggling in front of goal. Since November, Vinícius has failed to score in eight of his last 10 appearances and has been overshadowed by Kylian Mbappé.
His confidence appears shaken, and ongoing speculation about a potential move to Saudi Arabia has only added to the uncertainty.
We’re all Real Madrid today aren’t we ? pic.twitter.com/yZckDPf2nh
— Janty (@CFC_Janty) February 11, 2025
3. Madrid Struggles in Big Games
While City have had their own issues against elite teams, Madrid haven’t fared much better.
They suffered heavy defeats against Barcelona, including a 4-0 thrashing in La Liga and another loss in the Supercopa final.
In the Champions League, Madrid’s performances have been inconsistent, with losses to AC Milan and Liverpool exposing their vulnerabilities.
Their qualification was salvaged by victories against weaker sides like Brest and Red Bull Salzburg. City, despite their struggles, have shown they can deliver in crucial European matches.
4. City’s January Signings Have a Point to Prove
Manchester City reinforced their squad in the winter transfer window, spending over £180 million on players like Omar Marmoush, Abdukodir Khusanov, Vitor Reis, and Nico González.
These new arrivals bring fresh energy and competition for places, which could be crucial in a high-intensity tie like this.
Marmoush, in particular, has been in exceptional form, contributing to 30 goals in the first half of the season with Eintracht Frankfurt.
If he finds his rhythm at City, he could be a game-changer.
5. A Rested and Motivated Haaland
Erling Haaland endured a frustrating outing against Arsenal recently, where he was mocked by a young opponent.
However, he has since had over a week to rest and refocus ahead of the Madrid clash—something that should worry Los Blancos.
Haaland is yet to score in four appearances against Madrid, but with their makeshift defense, this could be his perfect opportunity to break that streak.
A hungry and well-rested Haaland is one of the most dangerous strikers in the world, and City will be counting on him to deliver.
6. Guardiola Knows How to Beat Madrid
While Real Madrid have been Guardiola’s nemesis on multiple occasions, the City boss still boasts an impressive record against them.
Across 25 meetings, he has secured 13 victories, including several iconic wins during his time at Barcelona.
As City manager, Guardiola has won four, drawn three, and lost just once against Madrid. His tactical nous and ability to adapt in high-stakes games could be the decisive factor in this tie.
The Verdict
Despite their worst season in years, Manchester City have plenty of reasons to believe they can knock out Real Madrid.
The Spanish giants are dealing with major injury concerns, their attack has been inconsistent, and their record in big games this season has been far from perfect.
With a revitalized squad, key players like Haaland eager to prove themselves, and Guardiola’s tactical experience, City could well turn the tide in their favor and advance to the next round of the Champions League.
Will City rise to the occasion, or will Madrid’s Champions League pedigree prove too strong once again? Football fans around the world eagerly await the answer.