Manchester City manager Josep Guardiola believes Real Madrid will be determined to get revenge after defeating the Spanish giants to win last season's Champions League.
City defeated Real 5-1 on aggregate in the semi-finals.
But Guardiola is certain that the 14-time champions will present a tough test in Tuesday's quarter-final first leg in Madrid (8pm CET).
“It's very difficult for the same thing to happen again,” Guardiola said.
“It is impossible to win against Real Madrid twice in a row. They have learned and will want to take revenge. They have pride.”
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti wants his team to show even more mental strength than when the two teams faced each other last season.
After drawing 1-1 with Madrid, Manchester City defeated Real 4-0 in the second leg.
“We played without courage or character,'' Ancelotti said. “Courage and character are fundamental in this kind of match and that was lacking in the second leg.
“The important thing is to be at your best and the mental aspect is very important.”
Former Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger kept Erling Haaland quiet in the first leg last season but did not start against Manchester.
”[The first leg] It was a good game and we stopped Haaland from receiving passes,” Rudiger said.
“The coach didn't apologize.” [for dropping me] I don't have to accept it, but I will accept it, even if it's not acceptable.
“The plan for this game is to try to control a dangerous player like Phil Foden. [Kevin] De Bruyne and of course Haaland. ”
Real Madrid were without Jude Bellingham last year, but the England midfielder has been a revelation for Real Madrid this season, scoring 20 goals in all competitions.
“He has had a very good season in the penalty area,” Ancelotti said.
“He is very physically strong and helps us a lot by creating space and providing movement defensively and up front.
“He's very mature. He's only 20 years old, but he's very professional, very serious and humble.”
team news
Guardiola is unsure whether to start Ederson in goal for Tuesday's Champions League quarter-final first leg against Real Madrid.
The Brazil international has not played since sustaining the injury in the 1-1 draw with Liverpool on March 10.
In his place, Stefan Ortega has been in goal in the last four games, keeping two clean sheets.
“I have to think about that. He is.” [Ederson] I feel good,” Guardiola said.
“Now we have to decide whether there is a lack of rhythm in the game or not, but we are really happy with the result.” [performance] From Stefan Ortega. He’s an extraordinary keeper.”
Defenders Nathan Ake and Kyle Walker did not travel to Madrid for the game, while Josko Gvardiol is doubtful after being sent off at half-time in the 4-2 win over Crystal Palace at the weekend.
