Real Madrid wrapped up their 35th La Liga title on Saturday with a comfortable 4-0 win over Espanyol.
But there was an extra reason to celebrate for Carlo Ancelotti, who became the first manager to win the title in all of Europe’s ‘top five’ leagues.
That’s because the experienced Italian managed to rest several key first-team players for the game, including Dani Carvajal and Federico Valverde, while Toni Kroos and Karim Benzema started on the bench.
It means Los Blancos should be fresher than Manchester City when they meet at the Bernabeu on Wednesday in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final.
Meanwhile, Casemiro played over an hour in the victory against Espanyol and should be available when City come to town, following a recent injury.
But in less positive news, Ancelotti confirmed ahead of the game that David Alaba will miss out due to injury.
It’s the Sky Blues who lead 4-3 from the first leg, with goals from Kevin De Bruyne, Gabriel Jesus, Phil Foden and Bernardo Silva giving them an advantage over Real.
But the 13-time European champions have shown a knack for sticking in Champions League ties this season and have overturned deficits against Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea in the knockout stages.
This is largely down to the experienced and composed side Ancelotti has at his disposal, and here’s how we think he’ll line up on Wednesday night…
That’s because the experienced Italian managed to rest several key first-team players for the game, including Dani Carvajal and Federico Valverde, while Toni Kroos and Karim Benzema started on the bench.
5. Ferland Mendy
Struggled defensively at times in the first leg, but set up the first of Benzema’s two goals.
6. Casemiro
The Brazilian’s return should be a huge boost to Ancelotti and Madrid, and he will offer the centre-backs greater protection.
7. Luka Modric
While struggling against the energy and pace of City’s midfield last week, the Croat produced some lovely passes and touches at the Etihad.
8. Toni Kroos
One of the many who didn’t start against Espanyol at the weekend, the rest could benefit him massively ahead of the second leg.