Real Madrid have confirmed their squad for the second leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 clash against Manchester City, with Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham included despite recent fitness concerns.
The Spanish side travel to England holding a commanding 3-0 lead from the first leg, where Federico Valverde stole the show with a stunning hat-trick, putting Madrid in a strong position to progress. Manager Alvaro Arbeloa announced the travelling squad on Monday, revealing the return of several key players ahead of the trip to the Etihad Stadium.
Mbappe and Bellingham back in contention
The biggest boost for Madrid comes with Mbappe’s return. The French superstar had missed the team’s recent matches due to a knee injury. While he may not start, his inclusion strengthens Madrid’s attacking options as they look to secure a place in the quarter-finals. England international Jude Bellingham has also been named in the squad, leaving open the possibility that he could feature despite ongoing match fitness concerns.
Defensive returns and key absences
Madrid have also welcomed back Alvaro Carreras after recovering from a recent knock, alongside experienced defender David Alaba.
However, a few players remain unavailable. Ferland Mendy and Raul Asencio have not recovered in time, joining Rodrygo Goes, Eder Militao, and Dani Ceballos on the sidelines.
To cover the squad, Arbeloa has called up several academy prospects, including Diego Aguado, Jorge Cestero, Manuel Angel, Cesar Palacios, and Thiago Pitarch, while Castilla defender Mario Rivas also makes the trip. Additionally, Argentine forward Franco Mastantuono returns to the squad after serving a suspension in the weekend league match.
Looking ahead
With a three-goal cushion from the first leg, Madrid can approach the Etihad clash with confidence, aiming to manage the tie effectively and secure progression to the Champions League quarter-finals.
