The UEFA Champions League quarterfinal Leg 1 between Real Madrid and Manchester City is currently underway. As both sides came out on the pitch with their best XI, eyebrows are being raised over Pep Guardiola‘s decision to bench star midfielder Kevin De Bruyne for the crucial match. However, the City boss clarified his call, asserting that the Belgian international ‘feels unwell’

Speaking about De Bruyne’s health to TNT before the match, the Spaniard revealed, “Vomits. He feels unwell.” Guardiola then further disclosed the intricacies of how the midfielder’s health suddenly deteriorated. “I don’t know, we make a meeting and he was ready, when we arrive in the locker room starts to vomit and say he’s not ready. It’s not good news but is what it is. Another player will play, 180 minutes and everyone will play.”

It’s quite surprising to see De Bruyne feel nauseated just before the crucial match. His absence certainly comes out to be an enormous blow for the Sky Blues, who had hoped to deploy their best player against Carlo Ancelotti’s side. Additionally, it will also give Los Blancos a chance to capitalize in his absence. Notably, former Madrid star Mateo Kovacic has stepped up to fill in for De Bruyne’s absence, helping Rodri in the center half of the pitch. On the other hand, the Belgian international’s absence can benefit a few within the team. 

De Bruyne’s absence can help Phil Foden dominate the playmaking role. Subsequently, he can exchange his role with Bernardo Silva, shifting to the wing as well. Either way, let’s hope Guardiola has already come packing for De Bruyne’s absence, just like he underlined his aggressive plan to face their formidable rivals. 

Pep Guardiola has an attacking plan against Real Madrid despite the absence of Kevin De Bruyne 

In the pre-match press conference, Pep Guardiola outlined his strategy for facing the 14-time Champions League winners. He emphasized the importance of not merely controlling the game but also aiming to inflict ‘hurt‘ on Real Madrid by scoring goals. Guardiola’s approach suggests that the Premier League side is preparing to do more than just maintain possession against Los Blancos. 

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They would be focused on actively seeking goals, a tactic that could prove advantageous for the English side. Securing a win with a significant goal margin would strengthen their position for the return leg at the Etihad Stadium. However, it remains to be seen whether they can assert dominance over the home side in front of the passionate Madridistas, who will undoubtedly be rallying behind their team.

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But the biggest talking point would be how Guardiola’s side can cope in Kevin De Bruyne’s absence.