Manchester City are gearing up for their most crucial match of the season on February 19 as Pep Guardiola once again faces his familiar rivals, Real Madrid. This encounter marks the fourth consecutive season that the two football giants meet, following their clash in the newly introduced last 16 playoffs last month.
The first leg saw Manchester City throw away a 2-1 lead late in the game, with Real Madrid’s Brahim Diaz and Jude Bellingham scoring in the dying moments to secure a remarkable 3-2 victory at the Etihad Stadium. Now, Guardiola finds himself in a challenging position as he looks to overturn the deficit and avoid another early exit from the Champions League. However, his task is made even more difficult by a growing list of injuries within his squad.
Defender Manuel Akanji has already been ruled out after undergoing surgery, dealing a significant blow to City’s defensive options. Adding to Guardiola’s worries is the uncertainty surrounding Erling Haaland’s availability for the crucial clash. The Norwegian forward, who finally broke his scoring duck against Real Madrid in the first leg, was forced off the field with an injury during Manchester City’s 4-0 Premier League win over Newcastle United on February 15.
Haaland’s injury occurred in the closing minutes of the match, where he was seen clutching his knee in visible pain, sparking concerns among fans and staff alike. Guardiola has since provided an update on Haaland’s condition, although his comments left fans with mixed feelings. Speaking after the match, Guardiola admitted that he had not yet spoken to Haaland or the medical team but noted that the doctor did not deliver any alarming news.
He expressed hope that the injury might not be as serious as initially feared, but uncertainty remains over Haaland’s participation against Real Madrid.
“When he was down, everyone was scared. I didn’t speak to him yet, or the doctor – but the doctor didn’t come with bad news – so hopefully he’s fine.
Maybe it’s not as bad as it could be,” Guardiola stated. Despite his cautious optimism, the possibility of Haaland missing the crucial European fixture remains a significant concern for City.
Should Haaland be ruled out, Guardiola may have to make bold tactical decisions. One possible option is to start Omar Marmoush, who has been in impressive form recently.
Marmoush netted a hat trick against Newcastle and made a substitute appearance in the first leg against Real Madrid. If Jack Grealish is also unavailable due to a muscular injury sustained in the first leg, Marmoush could be handed his first Champions League start for Manchester City.
As the countdown to the highly anticipated clash continues, all eyes will be on Haaland’s fitness updates and Guardiola’s strategic decisions. Manchester City fans are anxiously hoping for positive news, knowing that the outcome of this fixture could define their season.
