The rivalry between [Real Madrid](https://apitofinal.pt/nacional/rui-costa-revela-planos-surpreendentes-para-o-futuro-do-clube/) and [Manchester City](https://apitofinal.pt/internacional/bruno-fernandes-responde-com-classe-as-criticas-e-brilha-com-assistencias-em-2025-26/) in the [Champions League](https://apitofinal.pt/internacional/igor-tudor-mantem-se-no-tottenham-apos-empate-com-o-liverpool/) is set to heat up, with the Merengues arriving fully armed with some of their biggest stars. Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham have officially been called up for tomorrow night’s crucial clash, a match that promises to be explosive at the Etihad Stadium.
The young French prodigy, Mbappé, who has stood out as the top scorer for Real Madrid this season, missed the first leg of the Round of 16 due to a knee injury that kept him off the pitch. However, the star has returned to training with the team and will travel with his teammates to England later today. With an impressive 23 goals in 23 matches in La Liga and 13 in just eight appearances in the Champions League, expectations are high for his performance. Although he is expected to start on the bench, given the 3-0 lead Madrid holds after a phenomenal display by Federico Valverde in the first leg, his inclusion in the squad is a clear sign that Carlo Ancelotti is preparing for any eventuality against the team coached by Pep Guardiola.
On the other hand, Jude Bellingham’s recovery is even more encouraging news for Real fans. The talented English midfielder had not played since February 1 due to a thigh injury, and initially, it was not expected that he would return so soon. However, his presence on the list of call-ups for the match indicates that the team is gaining strength. It is important to note, however, that it is unlikely Bellingham will see minutes in the game on British soil, given his still uncertain physical condition.
In addition to the good news about Mbappé and Bellingham, Real Madrid also welcomes back left-back Álvaro Carreras, who trained over the weekend and is expected to be a viable option for a position that has faced difficulties throughout the season. Carreras’ absence in the first leg left Ferland Mendy, who is often injured, as the only option, but his substitution by Fran García at halftime raised questions about the team’s defensive solidity.
With a recent convincing victory over Elche by 4-1, Real Madrid remains four points behind La Liga leaders Barcelona, and the team is clearly determined to maintain its momentum. As the clash with Manchester City approaches, the anticipation is palpable, and fans are eager to see how Madrid’s stars will perform on the pitch. The battle promises to be intense, and the inclusion of Mbappé and Bellingham could be the decisive factor that brings the Merengues a step closer to glory in the Champions League.
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