Mbappé, bellingham return to real madrid squad for city clash

Real Madrid's Champions League hopes receive a significant boost as Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham have been included in the squad for Tuesday's crucial second leg against Manchester City.

Star duo back in the mix for champions league showdown

Mbappé, sidelined since February 21st with a knee injury, and Bellingham, recovering from a thigh issue since early February, have traveled to Manchester and trained with the team on Monday evening. Their inclusion offers a considerable lift to Carlo Ancelotti's side as they aim to overturn a 3-0 deficit from the first leg.

While a starting appearance for either player seems unlikely, both are expected to be available for a late cameo. Bellingham, despite his lengthy absence, has impressed during training sessions, hinting at a possible return to his previous form.

The return of these two stars isn't just a tactical advantage; it injects a psychological boost into the Real Madrid team. With the first leg result, the pressure is firmly on City, and the presence of Mbappé and Bellingham adds another layer of complexity for Pep Guardiola to navigate.

Former Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti believes his team can still progress, emphasizing the need for solid defense and balanced play. Meanwhile, Guardiola has issued a stern warning to his players, stating that belief is paramount. “If they don’t believe, it’s their problem,” he asserted. “They are grown men, they have good salaries. If they don’t believe in the Champions League, they should go home and stay there.”

The challenge for Manchester City remains immense. Overcoming a three-goal deficit against a team boasting Mbappé and Bellingham is a formidable task. Real Madrid's defense will be tested, and City's attacking prowess will need to be at its absolute peak. One thing is certain: this Champions League tie is far from over.