Manchester City launch internal review after major Real Madrid pre-match issue

Manchester City officials are conducting an internal review into Kevin De Bruyne’s illness ahead of last Tuesday’s Champions League clash with Real Madrid.

The 32-year-old was omitted from Manchester City’s starting side for the UEFA Champions League quarter-final first-leg clash with Real Madrid in midweek, with Mateo Kovacic starting ahead of the Belgian due to sickness.

De Bruyne was an unused substitute as a result of illness, as Pep Guardiola’s side were involved in an enthralling 3-3 draw at the Santiago Bernabéu on Tuesday evening.

Bernardo Silva gave Manchester City an early lead with a smart free-kick, before quick-fire goals from Eduardo Camavinga and Rodrygo allowed Real Madrid to race into a 2-1 lead.

Stunning long-range second-half goals from Phil Foden and Josko Gvardiol saw Manchester City move into an impressive 2-3 lead, however a 79th minute Federico Valverde volley levelled the scoreline ahead of Wednesday’s second-leg at the Etihad Stadium.

De Bruyne had helped Manchester City to a draw in the Spanish capital against Real Madrid last season, and could start in next week’s return leg in east Manchester, as the Sky Blues bid to reach the Champions League semi-finals.

De Bruyne returned from sickness for Saturday’s 5-1 Premier League win over Luton Town, as Manchester City extended their current unbeaten run to 27 matches and moved to the top of the table.

The Belgian midfielder has made 15 appearances since returning from hamstring surgery in January, and scored on his first Champions League start of the campaign against FC Copenhagen in February.

The 32-year-olds unexpected illness has triggered Manchester City to launch an internal review, with no other members of the first-team squad having suffered from illness concerns during the trip to Madrid.

According to the information of Manchester City insider ‘Tolmie’s Hairdoo’ on X, Etihad officials are conducting a review into De Bruyne’s illness, with no dramatic changes to the club’s pre-match menu having taken place.

Pasta, cheese spread with crackers, banana bread and grilled chicken, were all reportedly on the menu for Manchester City players ahead of the game at the Santiago Bernabéu.