Record winner Real Madrid wants revenge on defending champion City

After last year's semi-final first leg between Real Madrid and City, videos of Madrid centre-back Antonio Rudiger trying every trick available to drive Manchester City's goal machine crazy on the pitch went viral. In the end, it was of little use as City drew 1-1 at the Bernabéu, progressed to the final at home with a 4-0 win and later won the title against Inter (1-0). Today, the two teams meet again in the quarter-finals, and record-holder Real Madrid is looking for revenge against Pep Guardiola's team. This also applies to Rudiger, who will once again be Haaland's bodyguard. The German international said in the press conference before the match: “I deal with this confrontation on a personal level, as I am competing as a defender against a super striker.”

Recently, Haaland has been criticized in England for his relative lack of effectiveness, despite it being at a high level. In the end, the Norwegian scored 19 league goals as well as six goals and one assist in seven Champions League matches. Rudiger also warned of the need to control him and the high-quality technicians around him, but: “We will not stand back and watch City have the ball. There are phases where we have to apply more pressure. And phases where we have to defend more. We are ready.” To do that.” The Royals' confidence has returned and they are inspired by their confident progress up the league table. Coach Carlo Ancelotti mentions the difference from last year's duel: “Last year we simply lacked courage and character.”

Guardiola and Haaland leave the Sky Blues

At City, two players could slowly embark on a farewell tour. English media recently reported that Guardiola will leave the Sky Blues when his contract expires in 2025. Haaland has been repeatedly linked with Real Madrid and also has an exit clause in his contract that runs until 2027. In addition, his future in Manchester is said to be linked to Guardiola's future.