Real Madrid face Manchester City in a decisive Matchday 6 clash of the 2025–26 UEFA Champions League, a game that could define the standings ahead of the knockouts. To watch this game in the USA, you can tune in on Paramount+ or DAZN.
The team led by Xabi Alonso arrives under pressure after an irregular run of form and a recent 2-0 league defeat to Celta de Vigo, while also dealing with several injuries in defense and doubts surrounding a few attackers. Even so, the squad’s depth gives Madrid confidence as they prepare for one of their toughest tests of the group stage
Manchester City, meanwhile, enter the match with their usual high tempo and structured approach, looking to secure top position in the group and build on their strong European performances this season.
Real Madrid’s confirmed lineup
Real Madrid head into this clash without Kylian Mbappe, who is starting on the bench against Manchester City today. The Frenchman suffered a fractured ring finger on his left hand, which is why Xabi Alonso decided to take things calmly. Trent Alexander-Arnold is not playing today against City either as he’s recovering from a muscle injury.
Real Madrid confirmed starting XI: Thibaut Courtois; Federico Valverde, Raul Asencio, Antonio Rudiger, Alvaro Carreras; Aurelien Tchouameni, Dani Ceballos, Jude Bellingham; Rodrygo Goes, Gonzalo Garcia, Vinicius Junior.
Manchester City’s confirmed lineup
Manchester City will play almost at full strength in the Spanish capital, with an attack led by red-hot striker Erling Haaland. They will be without a few key players, as John Stones, Rodri, and Mateo Kovacic have all been ruled out.
Manchester City confirmed lineup: Gianluigi Donnarumma; Matheus Nunes, Josko Gvardiol, Ruben Dias, Nico O’Reilly; Nico; Bernardo Silva, Cherki, Phil Foden, Jeremy Doku, Erling Haaland.
SURVEY Who will win the Champions League showdown?
Who will win the Champions League showdown?
already voted 145 fans