One of the newer rivalries in the Champions League is set to continue this week, with Real Madrid looking to make the most of their extra rest before facing Manchester City in the quarterfinals on Tuesday.
Real Madrid’s coach, Carlo Ancelotti, is preparing for his 200th Champions League match, benefiting from a full eight days of preparation, unlike Manchester City, who played in the Premier League against Crystal Palace on Saturday.
Guardiola, the City manager, expressed his discontent over the difference in preparation time between the two teams. Madrid’s last league game was on March 31, while they had no fixture this past weekend due to the Copa del Rey final.
In the previous two seasons, Madrid and City have clashed in the knockout stages, with Madrid edging past City two years ago but City emerging victorious last season. Both teams have won the Champions League after eliminating each other.
Their upcoming encounter marks the 12th meeting between them in 12 years, with City holding four wins, Madrid three, and three draws.
Both teams aim to reach the Champions League semifinals for the fourth consecutive time.
