Mansion Sports – The Champions League continues to deliver matches filled with intensity and unpredictability. As the 2025/2026 season progresses, Real Madrid prepare to host Manchester City in a decisive matchday six encounter. 

The match will be taking place at the Estadio Bernabéu on Wednesday, 10 December 2025 at 21:00 local time, this encounter marks

With both teams arriving at the Estadio Bernabéu under contrasting circumstances, this fixture promises to be one of the most compelling clashes of the group stage. 

The following article presents a comprehensive overview of each team’s condition ahead of the match, as well as the predicted lineups curated in a formal structure.

Team Conditions Ahead of the Match

Real Madrid

Trailing four points behind Barcelona in the La Liga title race and securing only two wins from their last seven matches across all competitions, Real Madrid find themselves nearing a critical period. 

Their first home defeat of the season at the hands of Celta Vigo highlighted a growing list of internal issues.

Injuries have severely weakened the defensive line, the attack has struggled to convert crucial chances, and three red cards in one match underscored the turmoil the team is experiencing.

From an impressive start of 13 wins in their opening 14 matches, their form has dipped sharply, leading to increasing scrutiny over Xabi Alonso’s future.

Nevertheless, Alonso is set to lead his squad into this Champions League showdown. With 12 points from five games, including a thrilling 4-3 victory over Olympiacos inspired by four goals from Kylian Mbappé, the team still holds strong European momentum. 

Their dominance at the Bernabéu also remains a major advantage, with a perfect home record in the UCL this season and 13 wins from their last 14 home group-stage fixtures.

Manchester City

Manchester City arrive with a determination to recover after suffering a 0-2 defeat to Bayer Leverkusen on matchday five. 

Pep Guardiola implemented ten major rotations during that match, later admitting the experiment may have contributed to their slip outside the top eight.

With 10 points from five matches, City sit in ninth place—restricted from climbing higher due to goal difference against Dortmund, Sporting Lisbon, and Chelsea. Other group results have also threatened to push them further down the standings.

Despite their European setback, City have responded well in the Premier League, earning three consecutive wins over Leeds United, Fulham, and Sunderland with increasing stability. 

Carrying past experience in facing Real Madrid, the squad aims to avoid a third consecutive defeat to Los Blancos. 

Their historical performance at the Bernabéu remains challenging, with only one win from seven visits since February 2020.

Real Madrid vs Manchester City Lineups December 2025

Real Madrid (4-2-3-1)

Injury concerns continue to limit Real Madrid’s defensive options. Eder Militao is sidelined with a hamstring injury, joining Dani Carvajal, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Ferland Mendy, Dean Huijsen, and David Alaba in the unavailable list. Eduardo Camavinga has also recently been added to the injury concerns. 

Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappé, who has scored nine goals in this season’s Champions League, remains doubtful due to a foot issue.

Manchester City (4-1-4-1)

Manchester City face comparatively fewer injury setbacks, though John Stones remains absent due to an undisclosed issue. 

The team will also be without Mateo Kovacic and Rodri, presenting a challenge for Guardiola’s midfield structure. 

Rayan Cherki, after delivering two assists in the previous match—including a remarkable rabona pass—is expected to earn his first Champions League start for City.

Regardless of injuries, pressure, or current form, this match promises to be an electrifying contest between two of Europe’s most formidable clubs. 

The stage is set for another unforgettable night at the Santiago Bernabéu, where each moment could shape the trajectory of the Champions League campaign. As the competition unfolds, the drama is far from over, and the story of the 2025/2026 season continues to build toward its next defining chapter.