Carlo Ancelotti lauds ‘complete’ Man City ahead of Champions League showdown

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has praised Manchester City for their completeness ahead of their Champions League clash tomorrow.

Los Blancos welcome City to the Santiago Bernabeu for the first leg of their semi-final tie. It is a repeat of last season’s showdown at the same stage of the competition.

Ancelotti pinpointed Erling Braut Haaland as a big threat but admitted City have plenty more threats in their team.

Ancelotti said (via Man City’s website): “Haaland is a very dangerous player. Not just his goals, but he is a constant threat.

“It is a very complete team. They can defend and attack. They have a very clear idea of how they want to play football.

“It’s not just about stopping Haaland. It is about stopping a team who, at times, have been unstoppable, but we will have our chances. It is going to be a competitive contest.

“They were a very dangerous team last season, but Haaland brings something different. They can play more direct if needed. De Bruyne plays in behind Haaland and can bring the ball down.

“The tie will be decided in that return leg. We want to take a good result to Manchester.”

The Italian manager confirmed midfielder Luka Modric is available for the game. The Croatian maestro has recovered from a recent hamstring injury and will play on Tuesday.

Real Madrid are gunning for their 15th Champions League title after securing the Copa del Rey.

Their La Liga campaign has not gone according to plan, but they will take some consolation in their cup successes. They are different beasts altogether in the Champions League.

However, a desperate Man City will stand in their way. The Cityzens are pursuing their first Champions League title and manager Pep Guardiola’s elusive third.

They are on form and unbeaten in their last 21 games. City are top of the Premier League and through to the FA Cup final.

Tomorrow’s clash should make for an exciting tie.