Real Madrid will be leaning heavily on superstar Kylian Mbappe as they prepare to face Manchester City and their prolific striker Erling Haaland in a crucial Champions League showdown on Wednesday.
After winning only two of their last seven matches, cracks are appearing in Xabi Alonso’s Madrid project, with Spanish media suggesting a defeat to City could put the coach’s future under pressure. Amid the team’s struggles, Mbappe has been the constant, scoring 25 goals in 21 games across all competitions and carrying the team in Spain and Europe.
Manchester City, led by Pep Guardiola, are structured around Haaland, who has netted 20 goals in 20 games this season. The clash at the Bernabeu also previews their upcoming World Cup meeting next summer, with Mbappe’s France facing Haaland’s Norway.
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Madrid’s season has been plagued by inconsistent performances, tactical struggles, and player unrest. Alonso’s rotations and attempts at a pressing system have faltered, leaving the team heavily reliant on Mbappe’s skill, leadership, and influence. After a brief revival with a 3-0 win over Athletic Bilbao, the team slipped again with a 2-0 defeat to Celta Vigo, highlighting how much Madrid depend on their star forward.
As Alonso’s team prepares for the City clash, all eyes will be on Mbappe to deliver not just goals, but the leadership and spark needed to keep Real Madrid competitive against one of Europe’s most formidable sides.
