Why isn’t Kevin de Bruyne playing for Manchester City against Real Madrid today?

Tuesday night sees reigning English and European champions Manchester City roll into the Spanish capital to face perennial Champions League winners, Real Madrid. Two of the top teams on the planet; a plethora of super star players; a mysterious gold patch; and a Santiago Bernabéu with the roof completely closed. But something is missing from the start: a certain Kevin de Bruyne.

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What is Man City starting line-up in Madrid?

Pep Guardiola spoke ahead of this blockbuster clash and referred to the confidence and positive vibes that are rushing through the veins of his City players. Los Blancos were brushed aside by the team managed by the Barcelona legend in last season’s competition, and a key man in that side in recent seasons has been De Bruyne.

The starting XI is: Ortega Moreno, Akanji, Stones, Dias (C), Gvardiol, Rodrigo, Kovacic, Bernardo, Foden, Grealish, Haaland

Reason given for De Bruyne absence

There were many eyebrows raised as the news broke that the Belgium international was left on the bench, and from what we’ve gathered, it’s not to do with any injury. There is talk, however, from our sources at the ground that De Bruyne has some stomach issues so is being held back.

Can Pep out-think his opposite number Carlo Ancelotti? The midfielder is definitely a handy player to come on later if things are not going the right way. As long as his belly isn’t also going in the wrong direction, of course.