Real Madrid suffer BIG blow with star defender ‘out of the equation’ for Man City clash, as Pep Guardiola sends warning

Real Madrid suffer BIG blow with star defender ‘out of the equation’ for Man City clash, as Pep Guardiola sends warning

Real Madrid have suffered a major setback in their pursuit of Champions League glory this season, with reports from Spain confirming that Lucas Vazquez will miss the crucial second leg against Manchester City at the Santiago Bernabeu. This news comes as a blow to Los Blancos, who are already dealing with a defensive crisis ahead of the highly anticipated clash.

Madrid’s defensive woes have plagued them throughout the season. Key players such as Eder Militao, Dani Carvajal, and David Alaba have all been sidelined due to long-term injuries. Antonio Rudiger has also been struggling with fitness issues, leaving coach Carlo Ancelotti with limited options at the back. In a desperate attempt to cover for these absences, the Italian tactician has deployed midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni in central defense for most of the campaign. While Tchouameni has performed admirably in an unfamiliar role, his presence in the backline is far from an ideal solution.

Vazquez, a natural winger, has been filling in at right-back in Carvajal’s absence, providing Madrid with much-needed versatility. However, the 33-year-old sustained a hamstring injury in his left leg ahead of Madrid’s LaLiga fixture against Osasuna. Initially, Ancelotti expressed optimism about Vazquez’s recovery, suggesting that he could return for the showdown against City. However, according to reports from Spanish outlet AS, Vazquez has not recovered in time and has been ruled out of the match, further compounding Madrid’s defensive troubles.

Madrid hold a slender 3-2 lead from the first leg at the Etihad Stadium, but City remains a formidable opponent, especially on home turf. The defending English champions will be eager to overturn the deficit and secure a spot in the next round. Despite the setback, Real Madrid still head into the game as slight favorites given their pedigree in the competition. However, with their defensive frailties exposed, they will need to produce a near-flawless performance to keep City at bay.

Guardiola issues warning

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has acknowledged the difficulty of the task ahead but has warned Madrid that his team will fight until the final whistle. Speaking to ESPN, Guardiola admitted that City’s chances of progression are slim but remained resolute in his belief that anything is possible.

“The margin to win at the Bernabeu in this position, everyone knows that if you ask before the game, the percentage to go through would be very low,” said Guardiola. “Maybe 1%, I don’t know. The result wasn’t ideal, but as long as there is a chance, we will take it.”

The Catalan coach highlighted how the late goal conceded in the first leg made their task more difficult, saying: “If we had finished 2-1, it would have been a different situation. But at 3-2, the chance is smaller. Still, we are going to take it, and we’ll see what happens.”

Guardiola, a former Barcelona manager, has had numerous battles with Madrid throughout his career and understands the challenge of facing Los Blancos in the Champions League. However, with City’s attacking firepower and tactical discipline, they remain a significant threat to Madrid’s aspirations.

Madrid’s controversial LaLiga encounter and exit rumors

While Madrid’s focus remains on the Champions League, a storm is brewing in Spanish football. Their recent LaLiga encounter against Osasuna was marred by controversy, with Los Blancos being denied several penalty appeals. To add to their frustration, star midfielder Jude Bellingham received a contentious red card for an alleged outburst at the referee—an accusation the England international has strongly denied.

Amid growing tensions between Madrid and LaLiga president Javier Tebas, a shocking report from Spanish publication Sport has suggested that the club is considering leaving LaLiga to join another domestic league. Madrid has long been vocal about their dissatisfaction with refereeing decisions and their overall treatment within Spanish football. However, the notion of leaving LaLiga remains speculative at this stage.

If Madrid were to pursue such a move, they would face significant hurdles. Approval from FIFA, UEFA, and the Spanish Football Federation would be required, making any departure from LaLiga highly complex. Furthermore, Madrid would need to secure a place in another league, which could prove politically and logistically challenging.

The idea of Madrid leaving LaLiga has been met with skepticism, particularly given the source of the report. Sport, a Barcelona-based newspaper, has a history of publishing reports critical of Madrid, leading many to question the credibility of the claim. Nevertheless, the ongoing tensions between Madrid and the Spanish football authorities continue to be a topic of discussion.

Transfer news: Madrid’s summer plans

Looking ahead to the summer transfer window, Real Madrid is actively searching for defensive reinforcements. Given their struggles at the back this season, strengthening their defensive line is a top priority.

One of Madrid’s key targets is Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite. The 21-year-old Englishman has been in superb form for Everton, attracting interest from several top clubs, including Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Chelsea. Madrid is keen to bring in a young, dynamic centre-back, and Branthwaite fits the profile.

Additionally, Los Blancos are monitoring Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi. The highly-rated Spaniard has been linked with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu, but Madrid faces stiff competition from Arsenal, who are reportedly ahead in negotiations.

Conclusion

Real Madrid’s defensive injury crisis has reached a critical point with Lucas Vazquez ruled out for the crucial Champions League clash against Manchester City. With several key players unavailable, Carlo Ancelotti faces a tough challenge in assembling a backline capable of resisting City’s relentless attacking threat.

Pep Guardiola’s side, despite trailing 3-2 from the first leg, remains confident of their ability to turn the tie around. The City boss has issued a rallying cry to his players, emphasizing that they will fight until the end.

Off the pitch, Madrid finds itself embroiled in controversy, from contentious refereeing decisions in LaLiga to sensational rumors of a potential exit from the Spanish top flight. While such speculation should be taken with caution, it highlights the growing discontent within the Madrid camp.

As the second leg approaches, all eyes will be on the Santiago Bernabeu, where two European heavyweights will battle for a place in the next round. For Madrid, it’s a test of resilience amid adversity. For City, it’s an opportunity to prove their mettle on the biggest stage. One thing is certain: football fans worldwide are in for a thrilling encounter.