Man City Starting XI vs Real Madrid: Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineup | OneFootball

Man City Predicted Lineup for Bernabeu Clash

Man City’s predicted lineup for their Champions League trip to face Real Madrid comes into focus as Pep Guardiola juggles fresh injury concerns alongside a key ongoing absence. The champions arrive in Spain without their midfield fulcrum, Rodri, who has been battling a hamstring injury for much of the campaign and remains sidelined. The Spaniard did not travel with the squad, confirming he will not feature at the Bernabeu under any circumstances.

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Fitness Issues Shape Man City Selection

Guardiola’s planning has been further disrupted after John Stones suffered a leg injury, with the club yet to offer any clarity on the defender’s recovery timeline. Mateo Kovacic also remains unavailable following ankle surgery, leaving Guardiola slightly light in central options but otherwise able to select from a largely healthy group.

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The absence of Stones simplifies the centre back picture, particularly after Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol both scored in the 3-0 victory over Sunderland, a result that reinforced their partnership ahead of this European test. Their continuity in defence now feels logical given the disrupted alternatives surrounding them.

Man City Midfield and Front Line Options

In midfield, Nico Gonzalez is expected to continue as the holding figure, tasked with offering stability normally provided by Rodri. He is likely to be supported by Bernardo Silva and Phil Foden, a trio selected for both pressing intensity and technical control.

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Further forward, Foden’s weekend exploits alongside Rayan Cherki have sharpened discussion around City’s attacking balance. Cherki could again be deployed from the right flank, linking with Erling Haaland and Jeremy Doku, a front three that blends movement, direct running, and clinical finishing power. Haaland will spearhead the attack as the primary scoring threat, aiming to add to a prolific season already defined by ruthless efficiency in the penalty area.

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Man City Predicted Lineup at Santiago Bernabeu

Predicted Man City XI (4-3-3): Donnarumma; Nunes, Dias, Gvardiol, O’Reilly; Silva, Nico, Foden; Cherki, Haaland, Doku

Injured: Stones, Rodri, Kovacic

Time and date: 8pm GMT on Wednesday December 10, 2025Venue: Santiago BernabeuHow to watch: TNT Sports

All eyes will be on Guardiola’s reshaped midfield as City attempt to control territory without their usual linchpin in one of Europe’s most demanding venues.