Man City superstar admits Mbappe’s absence could help beat Real Madrid: ‘Will be an advantage’

Manchester City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma shared his thoughts ahead of the team’s crucial showdown against Real Madrid in the knockout stage of the UEFA Champions League.

City are preparing for a demanding night at the famous Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, where the Spanish giants often produce memorable European performances.

Advertisement

Despite the difficulty of the task, Donnarumma believes his team is ready to face the challenge.

Mbappe’s absence

One of the main talking points ahead of the match has been the absence of Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe, who is unavailable due to a sprained left knee.

Mbappe’s absence removes one of Madrid’s most dangerous attacking threats, something Donnarumma admitted could slightly change the workload for a goalkeeper.

Speaking during a press conference, the Italian goalkeeper reflected on the impact of Mbappe missing the match while also wishing the French forward a quick recovery.

“I’ve been lucky enough to play with Kylian, and he’s one of the best players in the world. As a goalkeeper, not having Kylian in front of you can be an advantage.

“You have less work to do. But we’ll still be up against great players. I’m friends with Kylian and I hope he can be back for the second leg, because he deserves it,” he noted.

Advertisement

Despite Mbappe’s absence, Donnarumma made it clear that facing Real Madrid in the Champions League remains one of the biggest challenges in European football.

“Real Madrid are undoubtedly one of the favourites, history speaks for itself, but they will be facing a team that is eager to surprise, that is hungry.

“We know the atmosphere we will encounter at the Bernabeu and it is important to know how to manage our emotions,” he added.

UCL unpredictability

Gianluigi Donnarumma is aware of the challenge ahead. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Donnarumma also pointed out how unpredictable the Champions League can be, reminding reporters that unexpected teams often make deep runs in the competition.

Advertisement

“There are a number of teams that can win the Champions League, many strong teams.

“If we look at last year, before the round of 16, no one thought PSG could win the competition, but everything can change,” he said.

The Manchester City goalkeeper also took time to praise Madrid’s first-choice goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, whom he considers one of the best in the world.

“I have an excellent relationship with Courtois. He is one of the best goalkeepers in the world, and I have admired him for a long time. I have everything to learn from a goalkeeper like him,” he said.

Praise for Real Madrid

Finally, Donnarumma dismissed the idea that Real Madrid might lack motivation this season.

Advertisement

Instead, he emphasised that playing for the Spanish giants already demands a strong mentality.

“I don’t think Madrid lacks hunger. Playing for Madrid is not something just anyone can do. You deserve to be here, to wear this shirt. I don’t think they lack hunger.

“It’s been a season of ups and downs, but we know that in the Champions League, they’re a different team. We’re ready.

“We know we’ll be facing a young team, but one that’s eager to take Madrid all the way. It’ll be a tough game.

“We have to prepare well, but we have to control our emotions. Playing here isn’t easy. We have to manage situations,” he concluded.

Click here to read article