Man City injury news and return dates ahead of Real Madrid
Manchester City take on Real Madrid tonight in the Champions League round of 16 first leg.
Manchester City return to Spain tonight when they take on Real Madrid in the Champions League round of 16 first leg at the Bernabeu. The Blues enter the game full of confidence after beating Newcastle 3-1 in the FA Cup on Saturday night. That team was heavily changed with the midweek clash in mind.
Erling Haaland did not travel to St James’ Park, sparking fears he could miss the game against Real. The Norway international did not travel to Leeds due to a minor ankle issue but he did play against Nottingham Forest last Wednesday.
Pep Guardiola said after the game against Newcastle he wanted Haaland to rest as he monitors his recovery. MEN Sport has rounded up the latest injury news and return dates from the City camp ahead of tonight’s big game.
Erling Haaland
Injury: Knock
Haaland took part in first-team training on Tuesday ahead of the clash with Real Madrid. He has travelled with the squad to Spain for tonight’s match.
Potential return date: March 11 vs Real Madrid
Mateo Kovacic
Injury: Ankle
It has been a frustrating season for Kovacic after suffering an ankle injury in October. Guardiola confirmed the midfielder would be back for the latter stages of the campaign and was training with the squad ahead of the trip to Madrid.
Potential return date: March/April
Max Alleyne
Injury: Knock
Alleyne has not been in the squad since the victory over Salford in the FA Cup. He picked up a knock in that game but did feature in first-team training on Tuesday before the trip to Real Madrid.
Potential return date: March
Josko Gvardiol
Injury: Leg
Gvardiol is a long-term absentee for City having fractured his leg in the January draw with Chelsea. The defender is in a race against the clock to be back before the end of the season and this summer’s World Cup.
Potential return date: May/June