This Tuesday night, Real Madrid will take on Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium, aiming to protect their 3-0 advantage from the first leg of their UEFA Champions League last 16 tie. With a recent impressive 4-1 victory over Elche, Los Blancos head into this match brimming with confidence.
Coach Alvaro Arbeloa is set to deploy a 4-3-3 formation and is likely to make a few changes to his starting lineup for this crucial encounter. Notably, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Arda Guler are expected to be included from the kick-off.
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Predicted 4-3-3 Lineup for Real Madrid Against Manchester City
Defense
Thibaut Courtois will stand in goal for Real Madrid after conceding just once in his last match. Antonio Rudiger will partner with Dean Huijsen in central defense, aiming to maintain a solid structure at the back.
Trent Alexander-Arnold is anticipated to shine as the right-back, while Fran Garcia aims to make a strong impact from the left-back position. Both full-backs will be given license to advance and make contributions in the attacking third.
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Dani Carvajal will provide additional cover for the right-back position from the bench.
MADRID, SPAIN – MARCH 14: Federico Valverde celebrates scoring his team’s second goal alongside teammates during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Real Madrid CF and Elche CF at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on March 14, 2026. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Midfield
The midfield trio of Eduardo Camavinga, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Federico Valverde will look to dominate the center of the pitch, focusing on winning 50-50 balls and creating scoring opportunities on the break.
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Thiago Pitarch Pinar and Manuel Angel may need to wait on the bench, ready to make their mark in the second half if called upon.
Attack
Vinicius Jr. will use his speed on the left wing, while Brahim Diaz aims to impact the game on the right.
Leading the attack will be Arda Guler, who will need to find ways to pose a threat in the attacking third.
Gonzalo Garcia will be available on the bench and could come on to make a difference in the late stages of the match if Los Blancos find themselves in need of a goal.