Real Madrid made headlines with a stunning 3–1 win over Manchester City at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Their 6–3 aggregate triumph followed a narrow 3–2 first-leg victory at the Etihad Stadium. Kylian Mbappe set the tone with an early strike in the fourth minute. It ignited the match and sent Los Blancos into battle mode.
The French star did not stop there. Mbappe scored in the 33rd minute to double Madrid’s lead and then completed his hat-trick in the 61st minute. A late goal from Nico Gonzalez in injury time provided a weak consolation for Manchester City.
Pep Guardiola gave high praise after the game. He admitted Madrid’s performance outshone his own team. The coach declared Los Blancos favorites for the Champions League this season. He warned that Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain, and Barcelona could challenge their supremacy.
Guardiola continued with a frank assessment. He stressed Madrid’s quality, dynamic play, and relentless pressing. The coach pointed to their long spells of possession and rapid counterattacks. He urged his players to learn from the defeat and prepare for many games ahead.
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Carlo Ancelotti turned the spotlight on Kylian Mbappe. The Madrid head coach celebrated the 26-year-old’s form. He has netted 27 goals and provided three assists in 37 matches this season. Ancelotti sees Mbappe as a future legend, with the potential to reach Cristiano Ronaldo’s level.
Ancelotti acknowledged that Cristiano Ronaldo set a very high standard. He stressed that Mbappe must work harder to reach that benchmark. The coach praised the Frenchman’s quality and drive, noting that he brings both illusion and talent to the pitch.
Transfer news heats up at Madrid. Eduardo Camavinga now faces a possible exit after a series of injury setbacks and unimpressive displays. Manchester United have shown interest, and speculation about his future grows daily. Meanwhile, Real Madrid eyes Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite amid fierce competition.
Real Madrid also braces for a blockbuster transfer battle. Reports suggest that the Saudi Pro League will launch a world-record bid for Vinicius Junior this summer. Although the Brazilian forward wants to stay, the summer window promises drama. Fans even wonder: How many goals will Mbappe score this season?