RM ‘broken’ before Man City as worst fears confirmed after Mbappe injury

Real Madrid have been handed a major injury blow ahead of the Champions League round of 16 tie with Manchester City, and it gives Pep Guardiola's team a real advantage

Real Madrid are grappling with an injury crisis ahead of the first leg of the Champions League round of 16 tie against Manchester City. In what appears to be a recurring theme in the competition, the two teams square off in the initial knock-out stages.

City journey to the Bernabeu next Wednesday as they aim to secure an advantage for the second leg at the Etihad Stadium just under a week later. Ahead of the clash, Real Madrid have been dealt a significant new injury setback.

It has been confirmed that forward Rodrygo has sustained an anterior cruciate ligament tear in his right knee following Sunday's 1-0 loss to Getafe. He incurred the injury mere minutes after coming on as a substitute, but managed to complete the match.

He was evaluated by medical staff in the changing room post-match, with further examinations on Monday confirming the unfortunate news.

This means the Brazil international will be out of action for the remainder of the season and this summer's World Cup.

The injury leaves the Spanish side lacking in forward options heading into Friday's La Liga showdown against Celta Vigo and the first leg against City.

Kylian Mbappe is a major doubt for both matches, with L'Equipe reporting that he is expected to miss the first leg. The club are reportedly aiming for his return for the second leg on March 17th.

Vinicius Jr and Gonzalo Garcia will be the sole attacking options available to head coach Alvaro Arbeloa for this week's fixture away at Celta Vigo.

A late red card issued to Franco Mastantuono against Getafe means he will serve a suspension for the match.

The 18-year-old midfielder will be eligible to feature against City in the Champions League, unless injury intervenes.

Offering his response to being paired with City, Arbeloa said: "It is going to be an exciting duel between two great clubs.

"It is a tie that the Madridistas like a lot because of the size of the opponent. When the time comes, we will prepare it to the maximum, knowing the demand it will entail."

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