The two most dominant forces in European football over the past few years collide again as Manchester City welcomes Real Madrid to the Etihad Stadium in a Champions League playoff match on Tuesday night.
This modern European rivalry has delivered some of the most thrilling knockout ties in recent history, with both clubs boasting world-class talent across the pitch. But when combining the best of both teams based on current form and injuries, who makes the cut?
Here’s the ultimate combined XI heading into this heavyweight clash:
🏆 Combined XI: Manchester City & Real Madrid 🏆
🧤 Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid)
Despite missing much of the season due to injury, Courtois remains one of the world’s elite goalkeepers. He was Man of the Match in the 2022 Champions League final and is still Madrid’s most reliable last line of defense.
🛡️ Right-Back: Matheus Nunes (Manchester City)
With Dani Carvajal and Lucas Vazquez injured, right-back is a problem position for both clubs. Pep Guardiola has often deployed Nunes—a natural midfielder—at full-back, and given Madrid’s injury woes, he edges into the XI by default.
🔒 Center-Back: Raul Asencio (Real Madrid)
Real Madrid’s breakout defensive star this season, Asencio has stepped up massively during Madrid’s defensive injury crisis. With Antonio Rudiger, Eder Militao, and David Alaba all out, he’s shown he can handle high-pressure situations, including an impressive performance in the Madrid derby.
🪨 Center-Back: Ruben Dias (Manchester City)
A rock at the back for City since 2020, Dias remains a crucial piece in Guardiola’s defensive setup. His leadership and consistency make him a no-brainer in this combined XI.
🚀 Left-Back: Josko Gvardiol (Manchester City)
Gvardiol has been one of City’s most dynamic players this season, not just defensively but offensively as well. With five goals this season, the Croatian has added another layer to City’s attacking play.
🎩 Midfield: A Tactical Masterclass
🧠 Central Midfielder: Dani Ceballos (Real Madrid)
Ceballos might be a surprise pick, but he’s been a steadying force in Madrid’s midfield while City has struggled without the injured Rodri. His ability to control tempo and provide balance earns him a spot.
⚡ Central Midfielder: Federico Valverde (Real Madrid)
One of the most complete midfielders in world football, Valverde contributes both defensively and offensively. He’s also got a knack for scoring screamers, including his stunning volley against City last season.
🎯 Attacking Midfielder: Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)
After a slightly slow start to the season, Bellingham has been unstoppable for Madrid in recent months. With 20 goal contributions in all competitions, he’s thriving in an advanced midfield role, making him a must-have in this team.
🔥 Attack: A Nightmare for Any Defense
🎭 Right Wing: Rodrygo (Real Madrid)
It may be controversial to leave out Vinicius Jr., but based on current form, Rodrygo gets the nod. With seven goals and three assists since the start of 2025, the Brazilian has been Madrid’s most lethal winger, earning him a spot over his compatriot.
💥 Striker: Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
An absolute machine in the Champions League, Haaland has 47 goals in 47 UCL games and 25 goals in all competitions this season. No debate—he leads the line.
🚀 Left Wing: Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid)
Mbappe has officially arrived at Madrid, and he’s on fire. His goal in the Madrid derby over the weekend saw him become the youngest player ever to reach 500 goal contributions (313 goals, 187 assists). He’s in untouchable form.
🔵⚪ Final Combined XI: 4-3-3 Formation
GK: Courtois (Real Madrid)
RB: Nunes (Manchester City)
CB: Asencio (Real Madrid)
CB: Dias (Manchester City)
LB: Gvardiol (Manchester City)
CM: Ceballos (Real Madrid)
CM: Valverde (Real Madrid)
CAM: Bellingham (Real Madrid)
RW: Rodrygo (Real Madrid)
ST: Haaland (Manchester City)
LW: Mbappe (Real Madrid)
⚖️ The Controversial Decisions – Who Missed Out?
✅ Vinicius Jr. – The toughest omission. He’s one of the best players in the world, but Rodrygo has been sharper in 2025.
✅ Rodri – Would have easily made the XI, but his injury hurts his case.
✅ Kyle Walker – Normally a lock at right-back, but injury concerns ruled him out.
✅ Antonio Rudiger – Another victim of Madrid’s injury crisis.
🔮 Can This Team Be Stopped?
With an attack featuring Mbappe, Haaland, and Rodrygo, this team would tear through defenses. The midfield trio of Bellingham, Valverde, and Ceballos provides balance, while the defensive lineup mixes Madrid’s youth with City’s experience.
💬 What Do You Think?
Would you change anything in this combined XI? Should Vinicius Jr. have made the team? Who else was unlucky to miss out?
One thing is for sure—when these two teams collide on Tuesday, expect fireworks.