Real Madrid has named its 23-man squad for the highly anticipated UEFA Champions League Round of 16 first leg against Manchester City. The much-awaited encounter is scheduled for Wednesday, March 11 (Thursday, March 12 in India), 2026, at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The highlight of the squad is Thibaut Courtois in goal and Vinícius Junior leading the attack. The lineup features notable inclusions such as Trent Alexander-Arnold in defense, indicating his integration following a high-profile transfer, and emerging talents like Arda Güler in midfield and young forward prospect Franco Mastantuono. However, a key player was absent from the list.
Is Kylian Mbappe playing tonight in Real Madrid vs Man City UCL clash?
No. Kylian Mbappe is not playing tonight in the Real Madrid vs Manchester City UEFA Champions League clash 1st leg. Mbappe is not included in the squad for the game vs the Sky Blues despite returning for training.
The French international has been away in Paris, undergoing treatment for a knee injury, but he did not complete a full session with the main group. The World Cup winner instead, carried out continuous running drills alongside fitness coach Sebastien Devillaz, according to a report in Tribuna.
Injuries have forced significant adjustments for Alvaro Arbeloa’s squad, with star striker Mbappe sidelined due to a persistent knee issue, Rodrygo out with a torn anterior cruciate ligament, and key players including Jude Bellingham, Dani Ceballos, Eder Militao, David Alaba, and Eduardo Camavinga either ruled out or listed as doubts.
As a result, Gonzalo Garcia is expected to partner Vinícius Jr up front, while a predicted starting XI includes Courtois; Alexander-Arnold, Antonio Rudiger, Raul Asencio, Ferland Mendy; Aurelien Tchouameni; potential returns for Camavinga and Federico Valverde in midfield; Guler in an advanced role; and the attacking duo against a fully healthy Pep Guardiola side.
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