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Real Madrid prepares for a crucial Champions League match against Manchester City amid injury concerns and transfer strategies.

Real Madrid is gearing up for a pivotal Champions League encounter against Manchester City, set for February 11 at the Etihad Stadium. Manager Carlo Ancelotti is contending with significant injury challenges, including Lucas Vazquez`s hamstring injury, sidelining him for approximately three weeks, and the long-term absence of Dani Carvajal due to an ACL injury. This situation may compel Ancelotti to lean on players like Federico Valverde, Ferland Mendy, or Fran Garcia to fill defensive gaps.

In the transfer market, Real Madrid is reportedly targeting Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, who has a €60 million release clause. Zubimendi is viewed as a potential heir to Luka Modric, whose contract is set to expire at the season`s end. Additionally, the club is looking to extend the contract of 21-year-old defender Raul Asencio, who has shown promise amid the team`s injury struggles.

Manchester City’s manager, Pep Guardiola, has acknowledged the defensive prowess of Real Madrid as a crucial element of their success. He emphasized the challenge of managing the attacking threats posed by Vinicius Jr, Kylian Mbappe, Rodrygo, and Jude Bellingham. Guardiola also noted City`s defensive vulnerabilities, having conceded 12 goals in their last five Champions League matches, positioning them as underdogs in this highly anticipated tie.

Currently, Real Madrid leads LaLiga with 49 points from 22 matches, boasting a record of 15 wins, 4 draws, and 3 losses, while scoring 50 goals and conceding 21.

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