OFFICIAL: Real Madrid's key defender absent for the clash against Manchester City

Real Madrid announced that a key defender has sustained an injury and will not participate in the home match against Manchester City in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals.

Real Madrid's preparations for the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-final against Manchester City continue to suffer setbacks in the defensive line. Recently, the club's official website confirmed Alvaro Carreras is the latest name to join the injury list at the Valdebebas training center.

The young defender was diagnosed with a muscle injury in his right calf following a severe collision during the defeat against Getafe in La Liga's 26th round. Although initially there was hope he could return for Monday's training session, doctors believe the player will require an additional week of rest. This likely means Ferland Mendy will continue to occupy the left-back position in the encounter with Manchester City.

While attention is focused on the Champions League showdown, the fitness status of Real Madrid's top stars remains a topic of concern. Both Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham are currently in recovery. Despite efforts to train for an early return, both are unlikely to be in peak condition to play in Wednesday's match.

The French forward, who recently returned from Paris, was seen doing gym work and individual drills on the pitch but has not yet participated in ball exercises. The coaching staff is taking a cautious approach to ensure Mbappe reaches his best condition for the return leg at Etihad Stadium. Meanwhile, Rodrygo is undergoing preparations ahead of a scheduled surgery.

On a positive note, Real Madrid has also received confirmation that Antonio Rudiger is fit to play and completed the full training session without any issues. The German defender is expected to renew his direct rivalry with Erling Haaland, a tactical duel that has played a crucial role in previous encounters between the two teams.

Los Blancos also welcome the return of Dean Huijsen, Franco Mastantuono, and Eduardo Camavinga. While Huijsen and Mastantuono were absent for the away trip to Celta Vigo due to suspension, Camavinga has fully recovered from severe toothache caused by a cavity and is ready to be included in the match plan.

According to multiple sources, the atmosphere at Real Madrid's training center is quite tense as the team faces a series of injury cases. Training sessions are focused on physical activation drills, tight-space coordination exercises, and high-intensity tactical scenarios aimed at countering Manchester City's ball-control style.

The match between Real Madrid and Manchester City will take place at 3:00 AM on March 12.