Real Madrid and Manchester City’s thrilling UEFA Champions League semifinal could have given us a taste of the next big European rivalry to come. Both clubs are expected to make big splashes on the transfer market this summer regardless of the result and perhaps Pep Guardiola’s men more so now.
For UCL finalists Real, the pursuit of Paris Saint-Germain’s Kylian Mbappe remains alive as he has not yet signed a contract extension. As for City, Borussia Dortmund’s Erling Haaland remains a key target and both players could transform the pair’s attacking units.
As Wednesday’s second leg illustrated, there are holes in both teams and that is particularly clear on Real’s side with the midfield in need of some serious work. Eduardo Camavinga arguably lessens that need, but Luka Modric, Toni Kroos and Casemiro are on their last legs as a trio.
Defensively, David Alaba was unable to feature while Eder Militao remains unconvincing, and Dani Carvajal is not exactly a lock on the right despite his superb assist for Rodrygo’s second goal on the night. Ferland Mendy also showed his worth with a superb late block as Thibaut Courtois exceled.
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Where both sides can undeniably upgrade is in attack with Real in need of a succession plan of the highest quality for when Karim Benzema succumbs to age with Vinicius already a high-quality part to pair with. Rodrygo also showed his quality with two quickfire goals to save Los Blancos.
City were out for a striker last summer and wanted Harry Kane at all costs before having to settle for Jack Grealish. The former Aston Villa man has had a tough introduction to Champions League life and the absence of a pure predatory finisher has arguably contributed…
Source : cbssports
