Real Madrid face Manchester City in the Champions League play-off, with five key players, Jude Bellingham, Luka Modric, Aurelien Tchouameni, Eduardo Camavinga, and Endrick, one booking away from suspension. Ancelotti also risks a touchline ban. Madrid secured their spot after wins over RB Salzburg and Stade Brest but struggled against Lille, Liverpool, and AC Milan.

The game ahead in the Champions League play-off round sees Real Madrid facing Manchester City in a highly anticipated clash at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday. Madrid, 15-time Champions League winners, recovered from early struggles in the group phase, securing knockout qualification with dominant wins over RB Salzburg and Stade Brest. However, defeats to Lille, Liverpool, and AC Milan cost them a top-eight finish.

City, surprisingly, had to fight until the final matchday to secure their spot, needing a comeback 3-1 win against Club Brugge to advance. Now, Madrid enters the tie as favorites due to City's inconsistent form, but Carlo Ancelotti faces a major concern—suspensions. Five key players—Jude Bellingham, Luka Modric, Aurelien Tchouameni, Eduardo Camavinga, and Endrick—are one booking away from missing the return leg. Ancelotti himself risks being banned from the touchline if he receives a caution.

Bellingham, crucial in big moments, and Modric, still influential at 39, are particularly vital. Tchouameni and Camavinga, filling defensive gaps due to injuries, are also at high risk. While Endrick’s absence may not impact the squad significantly, Madrid must manage its discipline to avoid losing key players for the decisive second leg at Santiago Bernabéu.