Madrid, Spain – Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has issued a bold proclamation ahead of their Champions League clash with Manchester City, declaring that the winner of their two-legged tie will inevitably lift the trophy in May.
This marks the fourth consecutive season where these European titans have clashed, with Real emerging victorious twice and City once, establishing a fierce rivalry that Ancelotti has dubbed the “new Clasico.”
“It is always a headache to face Manchester City,” Ancelotti declared. “It’s the most difficult game we can face, regardless of form. They are one of the best teams in Europe and they have the best manager out there. It’s a nightmare preparing for games against him because he always has ideas that make you think.”
Ancelotti’s confidence stems from the historical significance of their past encounters. In each of the previous three seasons, the victor of the Real Madrid-Manchester City duel went on to conquer Europe. City, of course, broke their duck in 2023, while Real Madrid reigned supreme in 2022 and 2018.
Both sides enter this year’s encounter with some question marks. City, despite their January spending spree, have struggled for consistency this season, nearly imploding in the group stage before narrowly escaping. Real Madrid, while domestically dominant, also experienced a shaky group stage, finishing second and entering the knockout rounds via the play-offs.
Guardiola, while acknowledging his team’s recent struggles, remains confident in their ability to overcome the challenge. “We are where we are, and I know perfectly but the team has something special and hopefully we can prove it,” he stated. “To be honest it is always better to have a second leg at home in case you have extra time with your people. We play the second game away because we were not good in the group stage – when you finish 22nd you cannot ask for any favours.”
The first leg kicks off at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday night, promising fireworks and another chapter in this thrilling modern-day rivalry.
