UCL: Guti expects a ‘very difficult’ clash between Real Madrid and Manchester City

Ahead of the Champions League round of 16 clash, former Real Madrid midfielder Guti anticipates an intense showdown with Manchester City, while betting on the magic of the Santiago Bernabéu to make the difference.

Former Real Madrid midfielder Guti expects a particularly tight clash between the Madrid club and Manchester City on Wednesday, in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16. Since the 2015-2016 season, the two sides have met six times in the knockout phase of the competition. During that period, Real Madrid held a slight edge with four qualifications to two for the Cityzens. Last season, the Madrid side again had the upper hand over Pep Guardiola’s team with a 6-3 aggregate.

Interviewed by the EFE agency, Guti believes that the Merengues will have to rely on the atmosphere at the Santiago Bernabéu to seize the advantage in this two-legged tie. “This is what we Real Madrid supporters cling to: it will be a tough match, but Madrid pride and those magical nights at the Bernabéu can still make the difference,” he said. The former Spanish international also hopes to see his former club seize the initiative before the return leg. “Let’s see if all this will allow Real Madrid to raise its level and, above all, approach the second leg with the hope of qualifying,” he added. The match is scheduled tonight from 9 p.m. (GMT+1).