Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe showed his true feelings toward Manchester City ahead of kick-off with a respectful gesture, hidden away from the public eye.. Tuesday night’s clash between the two sides is the fourth meeting in the last five years, with the winner of said tie often going on to reach the Champions League final. However, this season, both clubs have struggled in Europe for one reason or another.. City finished the league phase of the competition in 22nd place and needed a win in their final game of said phase to guarantee a place in the play-offs, finishing on 11 points.. Real Madrid, on the other hand finished in 11th on 15 points, just one point behind Aston Villa in the top eight.. The two sides will do battle at the Etihad Stadium before heading to Spain for the reverse fixture next week, with one of the favourites set to leave the competition at the end of the tie.. Both sides have star-studded XI’s albeit have struggled with injuries so far this season. Madrid were forced to field a makeshift backline for the trip to Manchester, while Pep Guardiola’s men are still without key players across the pitch.. As fans funnelled in to the ground, TV cameras picked up a moment that the majority of those heading to the game would miss.. Amazon Prime TV cameras captured Real Madrid forward Mbappe heading into the ground ahead of kick-off walking up the tunnel before heading into the away dressing room. The French superstar showed his respect for City by avoiding the crest on the floor, opting to take a few further steps and walk round the badge.. Superstition or a moment of respect, it’s clear the forward was not willing to take any chances heading into the important clash.. City had to weather an early storm against Real but had a 1-0 lead at the break after a brilliant team goal was rounded off by Erling Haaland. Supporters had to wait a long time for VAR to award the goal, but it did eventually arrive with Guardiola’s men leading at the interval.. Get City transfer updates on WhatsApp!. Manchester City wrapped up the 2023/24 season with a fourth successive Premier League title, but they missed out on another Treble with defeat in the FA Cup final and Champions League quarter-finals. It’s now time for Pep Guardiola and co to turn their attention to the transfer window.. Our MEN team of City experts will be on top of all the goings-on at the Etihad this summer and beyond, and you can get the latest updates and inside information to your phone by joining our new free WhatsApp community. You can also join the 40,000 (and growing!) band of Blues fans who are following our WhatsApp channel.. Sign up to our community here, and join our City channel here.. –. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
