Real Madrid predicted line-up vs Man City as Kylian Mbappe injury forces rethink

CommentsSportopinionJack Flintham Sport Central Audience Writer05:30, 11 Mar 2026Updated 13:08, 11 Mar 2026Real Madrid will be forced to field a weaker side than they would like when Manchester City visit in the Champions League round of 16 tonight. While Pep Guardiola is able to choose from a mostly fit squad, Alvaro Arbeloa may be missing as many as seven players.

Despite this, they will have their first-choice goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois, available. The Belgian and City's Gianluigi Donnarumma are arguably the two best shot stoppers in world football and Courtois' presence between the sticks will give Madrid confidence. Trent Alexander-Arnold is a familiar foe for City and should start at right-back.

Dean Huijsen missed the weekend victory over Celta Vigo due to suspension but is available to feature again alongside Antonio Rudiger at the back. Former Manchester United defender Alvaro Carreras has been the firm favourite at left-back this season but he picked up a calf injury recently and is unlikely to be available.

Ferland Mendy is likely to keep his place on the left side of defence. Eduardo Camavinga has missed the last couple of La Liga matches but took part in training on Tuesday so should be recalled to face City. Captain Federico Valverde is one of the first names on the teamsheet.

Jude Bellingham continues to suffer with a hamstring issue and won't feature against the Blues. Aurelien Tchouameni excelled against Celta Vigo and likely retains his spot.

In attack, Real could be missing Kylian Mbappe. He returned to training on Monday and Arbeloa suggested Mbappe was recovering from injury well but refused to confirm his availability for this game.

This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn moreFrom £1,399Seat UniqueBuy tickets hereProduct DescriptionThe Carabao Cup Final will see Arsenal v Manchester City at London's Wembley Stadium this March.

Arda Guler could keep his place as a false nine at the top of the pitch. With Mbappe absent, Real are hoping Vinicius Jr can fill the void. He is guaranteed to start and former City man Brahim Diaz completes the front three.

Real Madrid predicted XI vs City: Courtois; Alexander-Arnold, Huijsen, Rudiger, Mendy; Valverde, Tchouameni, Camavinga; Diaz, Guler, Vinicius Jr