Real Madrid locker room disappointed with drawing Manchester City again in Champions League – report

The UEFA Champions League draw has once again delivered a heavyweight clash between Real Madrid and Manchester City, but inside Valdebebas, the reaction has reportedly been far from celebratory.

According to journalist Damian Casol, there is a sense of disappointment within the Real Madrid camp following the outcome in Nyon. 

While supporters may view the tie as one of the most exciting matchups in European football, internally, it appears there is frustration at facing Pep Guardiola’s side yet again.

A familiar match

This latest pairing marks the sixth time since the 2019-20 season that the two clubs will meet in the knockout rounds. 

The rivalry has become one of the defining storylines of modern Champions League football. 

Just earlier this season, City defeated Madrid 2-1 in the group stage after coming from behind.

Notably, the first leg of the upcoming tie will be played at the Santiago Bernabeu on March 10 or 11, before the decisive return leg at the Etihad Stadium on March 17 or 18.

Familiarity with Man City

Man City have become a familiar opponent for Real Madrid. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Within the squad, certain players are especially familiar with the English champions. 

It is believed that Thibaut Courtois and Antonio Rudiger have faced Manchester City repeatedly in recent seasons. 

In fact, Courtois has now played City more times as a Real Madrid goalkeeper than he ever did during his years in the Premier League.

During his spell in England, Courtois faced the Cityzens eight times. Since moving to Madrid, that number has already risen to nine meetings against Guardiola’s side. 

For Rudiger, the story is almost similar. The German defender has become a regular participant in these high-intensity encounters, tasked with stopping one of the most fluid attacking systems in European football.

While Real Madrid remain confident in their Champions League pedigree, the feeling internally is that drawing Manchester City again means another physically demanding, tactically complex and emotionally draining tie.