Carlo Ancelotti confirms Eder Militao as likely candidate to replace suspended star for Manchester City game

It was an epic Champions League quarter-final first leg between Real Madrid and Manchester City on Tuesday night, as six goals were shared at the Santiago Bernabeu. However, it means Los Blancos will be significantly disadvantaged for the return leg at the Etihad Stadium next Wednesday, as they will not take the lead in that one.

Another blow for Real Madrid is that they cannot count on Aurelien Tchouameni for the trip to Manchester, as he received a one-match suspension, following a yellow card in the first leg. This is very bad news for Carlo Ancelotti, although he confirmed it to Movistar+ (via Brand) that Eder Militao is a serious option to replace the Frenchman – who would be his first start since tearing his ACL in August.

“We have the option of Nacho, in whom we still trust, and also Militao.”

In that match itself, Ancelotti felt that his tactical decision to start Rodrygo on the left, Vinicius as a striker and Bellingham in a number 10 role was successful, and that Man City was surprised by it.

“I think we surprised them. With the second goal it was a perfect game, the two combined very well on the left wing. With Vini and Rodrygo we could create opportunities, and we did. I'm happy.”

Despite the fact that Real Madrid were unable to take any advantage in the second leg in Manchester, Ancelotti is still happy with the way the tie is at the moment. He believes his team is more than capable of winning at the Etihad Stadium, which has been a stronghold for Man City for some time now.

“What I wanted was to take a small lead, but we have to be satisfied. We competed and if we do it in the second stage, we can pass.”