Manchester City host Real Madrid at Etihad Stadium on 17 March 2026 in a UEFA Champions League 1/8 final clash. City arrive ranked 8th in the competition standings with 16 points from 8 matches, while Madrid sit 9th on 15 points but boast the stronger goal difference.
Manchester City Injury Update
Manchester City are without defender J. Gvardiol (broken leg) and midfielder S. Nypan (inactive), both ruled out. Versatile defender R. Lewis (ankle injury) is uncertain and faces a late fitness test. Crucially for City, leading scorer Erling Haaland is fit, bringing 7 Champions League goals, and creative midfielder Bernardo Silva is also available, as is P. Foden.
Real Madrid Injury Update
Real Madrid have a longer absentee list. Defenders Raúl Asencio, Éder Militão and F. Mendy are all out with muscle and hamstring problems, weakening Carlo Ancelotti’s defensive options. In midfield, Dani Ceballos is sidelined by a muscle injury. In attack, Rodrygo is ruled out with a knee injury, a notable blow to Madrid’s forward depth.
Even with Rodrygo missing, Madrid retain huge attacking firepower: Kylian Mbappé is available with a competition‑leading 13 goals and 1 assist, while Vinícius Júnior (3 goals, 4 assists) and F. Valverde (3 goals, 4 assists) are also fit. Overall, Madrid’s absences are concentrated in defence, whereas City’s key attacking threats remain intact.
