Real Madrid enter this match against Manchester City in poor form and with a long list of important absences.

Key defenders are unavailable: Alaba, Alexander-Arnold, Camavinga, Carvajal, Éder Militão, Hujsen and Mendy leaving Rüdiger as the only fully reliable option in the back line.

On top of that, Mbappé missed yesterday’s training session due to a minor muscle issue, although he is still expected to start.

Defensively, Real Madrid have shown several weaknesses recently. They’ve conceded 8 goals in their last 5 matches and often look fragile at times opponents need only two quick passes to break through and create goal-scoring chances. Against a team like Manchester City, who excel at finding gaps and exploiting defensive disorganisation, this could become a serious problem.