A gray-haired man in the foreground with football players in the background during a game.
Carlo Ancelotti could receive good news ahead of the return of the Champions League. | Camara Real Madrid Confidencial
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Ancelotti Receives the Best News Ahead of the Match Against Manchester City

Real Madrid might have a reinforcement back for next Wednesday's clash at Bernabéu

by

Sergio Iglesias

Real Madrid secured a key victory in the first leg of the Champions League round of 16, defeating Manchester City (2-3) at the Etihad. Despite having to come from behind twice, the Madridists demonstrated their strength and ended up winning the match.

Although they couldn't count on Antonio Rüdiger in the center of defense, AurélienTchouaméni and Raúl Asencio showcased their great abilities. Now, the second leg is approaching, and the German defender could be available for that decisive clash.

Antonio Rüdiger has been a key piece in Real Madrid's defense this season. However, the German suffered a hamstring injury that forced him to stop for a while. During the white team's visit to the RCDE Stadium, the defender had to be substituted after 15 minutes due to discomfort.

A player with the number 22 on his jersey is sitting on the field while other players surround him.
The moment of Antonio Rüdiger's injury at RCDE Stadium. | Real Madrid Confidencial

Rüdiger Evolves Favorably

Once again, the club reported that the defender is doing everything possible to be available for the second leg at the Bernabéu. In the post-match press conference, Carlo Ancelotti expressed confidence in his return: "We need him; I think he'll be ready for the second leg."

The German remains the leader of a defense heavily affected by injuries. Even so, Raúl Asencio and Aurélien Tchouaméni performed wonderfully at the Etihad, but Antonio Rüdiger's return is a plus.

What Will Carlo Ancelotti Do?

With the possible return of AntonioRüdiger, Carlo Ancelotti will be forced to decide. The German, if healthy and able to compete, will undoubtedly be a starter. From there, the Italian coach will have to choose his partner to defend against Erling Haaland and company.

Two players in action during a match, one in an orange uniform and the other in a light blue uniform.
Raúl Asencio completed one of his best matches against Manchester City. | Real Madrid Confidencial

The first could be AurélienTchouaméni, as the Frenchman usually played ahead of Raúl Asencio in previous matches. He is one of Carletto's "protected" players, and his last match as a center-back at the Etihad was handled with flying colors.

The second option is Raúl Asencio. Less experience, but his performance in the first leg proves otherwise. The youth player has the support of all the Madridist fans and could be another solution for Carlo Ancelotti in the second leg.

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