With the defence stretched thin, the pressure now falls squarely on Tchouaméni and Asencio as “Rambo” (Rüdiger) is in the treatment room with a hamstring injury. He’s expected to be out for at least two more weeks, making his return for the second leg against City at the Bernabéu highly unlikely.

Injuries have not slowed Real Madrid, as they remain unbeaten in three straight matches, including a win over Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City. However, Vinicius Jr.’s renewal is stealing the spotlight,