Arbeloa could start Real Madrid teenage gem, injury-prone veteran vs Manchester City | OneFootball

Real Madrid are already looking ahead to Wednesday’s first leg of the UEFA Champions League Round-of-16 tie against Manchester City.

Coach Alvaro Arbeloa secured a dramatic victory against Celta Vigo on Friday, a result that not only brought relief and confidence but also reinforced the selection decisions he made in Balaidos after having ten absentees due to injuries and suspensions.

The match could now influence Arbeloa’s selection for the clash against the Cityzens, particularly because two players have significantly improved their chances of starting.

Thiago Pitarch, Ferland Mendy could start

Indeed, according to MARCA, Arbeloa could hand starts to youngster Thiago Pitarch and veteran defender Ferland Mendy against Manchester City.

Pitarch, just 18 years old, seems to be gaining prominence in the first-team squad. The youngster has started back-to-back games this week, against Getafe and Celta, filling in for the absent Eduardo Camavinga.

Ferland Mendy could start again vs Man City. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

The La Fabrica gem impressed in both his outings, delivering strong performances, which have strengthened his case to feature against Manchester City, despite the potential availability of Camavinga for the game.

As for Mendy, the 30-year-old left-back played his first game under Arbeloa, starting against Celta with Alvaro Carreras suspended. It was also his first start in over three months.

But Mendy put in a strong performance, making a statement that he still has a lot to offer, despite having barely played this season due to injuries. In addition, his experience also works in his favour.

Furthermore, reports suggest that Alvaro Carreras is dealing with a knock he picked up against Getafe, which could improve Mendy’s chances of starting.

Arbeloa was full of praise for both Thiago and Mendy after the game, and he could back them over Camavinga and Carreras against Manchester City.