Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that two important players, Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba, will return to the team for the second leg of their UEFA Champions League tie against Manchester City.

Both defenders were absent during the first leg at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday, as well as in Madrid’s 1-1 draw against Atletico Madrid in LaLiga last weekend, due to injury.

After Real Madrid’s 3-2 victory over Manchester City, Ancelotti assured the media that Rudiger and Alaba would be ready to play in the return leg at Santiago Bernabeu.

He emphasized the importance of having them back for the match, saying, “We need Rüdiger and Alaba for the return leg and I think they will be available.”

Ancelotti also mentioned that he was impressed with his team’s performance, describing the game as surprisingly strong, given the circumstances.

The second-leg winner will advance to the Champions League Round of 16.