Manchester City's Latest Signings Change the Trend 24 Hours Before the Match

After an exciting league phase, the Champions League is ready to return. Debuting its new play-off round, the most anticipated match is Real Madrid against Manchester City. Both clubs will face each other for the fourth consecutive year in a match that will determine their advancement to the round of 16.

Leading up to this match, the club managed by Josep Guardiola notably changed a trend. After the signings made in the winter market, City surpassed Real Madrid in squad value. Reaching a valuation of €1.3 billion, the English surpassed the merengue squad's value by €70 million.

Even so, Real Madrid has the highest number of players valued over €100 million. A small sample of the quality this upcoming match will have. With the first game being at the Etihad, the hours are numbered for the start of this exciting event.

The Change Brought by City

Enduring one of their worst seasons in several years, Manchester City turned to the winter market. Spending €218 million, the English reinforced themselves for the rest of the season. However, the vast majority of the players they signed have not lived up to the expectations for the British team.

Despite having surpassed the merengue team in squad value, what matters is the current level of the players. While Real Madrid started with several doubts this season, the last few months have shown a clear improvement in the team.

With players like Rodrygo, Valverde, Mbappé, Bellingham, and Vinícius, it's evident that Real Madrid has quality to spare. A completely opposite case to a City that, despite having Haaland and Foden, is not at the same level as in previous seasons.

The Clear Favorite

No matter the amount of euros Manchester City ended up spending, the club arrives with many doubts for their match against Real Madrid. The merengue team, despite the lack of signings they made in winter, is the clear favorite to take the victory.