Real Madrid’s last-minute request for their Champions League clash against Manchester City has been granted, according to stunning reports.
Real welcome Man City to the iconic Bernabeu for tonight’s quarter-final first-leg clash.
The La Liga giants are looking to claim their 15th European title, having last won the competition in the 2021/22 season.
But the Champions League holders stand in their way of advancing to the next round.
And the Blues beat Carlo Ancelotti’s side in last season’s campaign, winning the tie 5-1 on aggregate.
Ahead of hosting Pep Guardiola’s team, Real will have the roof closed at the Bernabeu, according to Spanish outlet Marca, who claim UEFA have accepted the club’s request.
Like their game against RB Leipzig in the previous round, the Bernabeu roof will be closed, making a cauldron-like atmosphere, per the report.
“A lot of noise and more pressure for what will be a cauldron dressed in white to impact the rival,” state Marca.
The Bernabeu for Real Madrid vs. RB Leipzig. Image: Getty
The Bernabeu for Real Madrid vs. RB Leipzig. Image: Getty
Man City head to the Spanish capital, having beaten Crystal Palace 4-2 last weekend.
Kevin De Bruyne shone as he bagged a stunning brace while Rico Lewis and Erling Haaland also got on the score-sheet.
As for Real, Jude Bellingham has enjoyed a prolific campaign, scoring an impressive 20 goals across all competitions.
Reflecting on Bellingham, Guardiola said: “He played against us with Dortmund when he was 17.
“Not just the skills. What makes the difference is what he has in his head. He has also coincided with coaches like Ancelotti, who has found his ideal position. He is also brilliant with the national team. He is 20 years old and has an incredible career ahead of him.”
Guardiola also disagreed with Ancelotti’s claim that his side played without personality last season.
“I don’t agree,” he explained. “When Real Madrid lose, they think it’s because they were bad.
“But they have to think the other team was better. That game we were better. Not because Real Madrid were bad.”