Real Madrid dominated Manchester City 3-0 in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 even without Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe, as a hat trick from Fede Valverde and elite defensive work ensured they would emerge victorious.
But things could get even better for Real in the second leg at the Etihad, as El Chiringuito report that the Merengues are hoping to have left back Alvaro Carreras and the club’s best player, Mbappe, back in time for the second leg.
Mbappe has been recovering well after being shut down wisely for continued and worsening left knee pain. Rather than risk aggravation, Real rested him up. Now, he is expected to be back either during the March international break or after it (hopefully after it for the Man City game).
Carreras’s return would be an even bigger deal. He recently suffered a calf injury, and now with Ferland Mendy out injured yet again, his status is very important for Madrid because the club would have to start Fran Garcia against Man City if he cannot be available for the second leg.
Joe Soriano is the editor of The Trivela Effect and a FanSided Hall of Famer who has covered world football since 2010. He’s led top digital communities like The Real Champs (Real Madrid) and has run sites covering Tottenham, Liverpool, Juventus, and Schalke. He also helped manage NFL Spin Zone and Daily DDT, covering the NFL and pro wrestling.