Real Madrid's Stricken Defence Ripe For Erling Haaland, Manchester City

Record 15-time Champions League winners Real Madrid face Pep Guardiola's Manchester City on Tuesday wondering how to keep powerhouse striker Erling Haaland at bay. The Norwegian juggernaut is back in form with seven goals in his last eight games across all competitions and will be aiming to capitalise on Madrid's crumbling defence. Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao's long-term injury absences have been compounded by new injuries for Antonio Rudiger, David Alaba and Lucas Vazquez.

Along with veteran Nacho's departure last summer, Madrid are short at the back heading into the play-off round tie against City.

Madrid did not reinforce in the winter transfer window and Ancelotti said his team must "bear out" the tough spot they are in.

The coach is also still seeking the perfect balance between defence and attack after superstar French striker Kylian Mbappe's arrival last summer.

The holders have often struggled defensively when using Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo Goes together as starters.

However Ancelotti deployed his 'fantastic four' in a 1-1 La Liga draw against Atletico on Saturday and they worked hard when called upon to track back for the leaders.

That has not always been the case, with veteran midfielder Luka Modric rowing with Vinicius last week in a 3-2 Copa del Rey quarter-final win over Leganes to get the Brazilian winger to help out more in defence.

"You always have to respect what Modric says," said Ancelotti, siding with the Croatian, and Vinicius seemed to take note.

Ancelotti spent the early months of the season complaining about a lack of balance and defensive work ethic from his side, as Madrid initially fell behind Barcelona domestically and were beaten by Brest, Liverpool and AC Milan