The road to Madrid has begun with the league phase having reached its midway point - but which teams are currently looking in the best shape to go on and lift the European Cup?
Jose Mourinho has openly bemoaned his side's demanding fixture schedule following a narrow Champions League victory over AEK Athens. The Portuguese manager revealed he will be forced into making sweeping changes once again ahead of a crucial domestic clash this weekend.
Jose Mourinho has provided a fascinating insight into how he manages Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Junior following their Champions League victory against AEK Athens. The Portuguese tactician explained that he relies mostly on a soft approach, but is not afraid to use a firm hand when required.
Jude Bellingham has hailed the winning mentality of his team-mates after starring in a dramatic Champions League victory over AEK Athens. The English midfielder earned the MVP award following a thrilling match that saw Jose Mourinho’s side fight back twice to secure all three points.
Federico Valverde proved to be the ultimate hero from the bench as Real Madrid secured a dramatic Champions League comeback against AEK Athens. The captain fired home a spectacular long-range winner to seal the victory after his side had fallen behind in a tightly contested European clash.
Jose Mourinho believes only Real Madrid could have won the way they did against AEK Athens, after his side came from behind to snatch a dramatic stoppage-time victory in Greece. The coach also defended Vinicius Junior over Yan Diomande's switch to the right and admitted the penalty Kylian Mbappe won at Racing Santander was a soft one, though he insisted it changed nothing.
Real Madrid maintained their perfect European record with a thrilling 3-2 victory over AEK Athens in a match defined by tactical shifts and individual brilliance. Despite trailing twice, the Spanish giants displayed their trademark resilience to snatch all three points at the death.
Jose Mourinho has challenged Federico Valverde to embrace the sacrifices required of a Real Madrid captain as the Spanish giants prepare for a tricky Champions League encounter with AEK Athens. Speaking ahead of the trip to Greece, the Portuguese manager also clarified his attacking selection plans involving Vinicius Junior and provided a somber reflection on the tragic passing of Spanish footballer Jesus de Miguel.
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has opened up on his commitment to helping Phil Foden recapture the world-class form that once made him the envy of European football. The Italian tactician believes it is his personal responsibility to guide the 26-year-old back to the pinnacle of the game following a difficult period at the Etihad Stadium.
Manchester City boss Enzo Maresca has played down individual Ballon d'Or talk regarding Rayan Cherki following the French playmaker's eye-catching display in a 5-1 demolition of AEK Athens. The Italian tactician stressed that collective harmony takes precedence over personal accolades as his rotated squad rebounded in style from continental defeat.
Phil Foden has set his sights on maintaining his prolific scoring form after inspiring Manchester City to a commanding Champions League triumph over Greek champions AEK Athens at the Etihad Stadium. The England international netted a superb hat-trick and registered an assist on Tuesday night as Enzo Maresca's side returned to winning ways in Europe.
Manchester City comfortably brushed aside AEK Athens 5-1 in the Champions League, spearheaded by a brilliant treble from Phil Foden. Despite a brief scare when the visitors pulled one back early in the second half, City's technical superiority shone through in a dominant display.
Manchester City defender Marc Guéhi has revealed why he no longer takes the knee, urging for more impactful societal action against racism. The centre-back also opened up about the squad's immense unity amid recent off-field financial controversies, while confirming injury setbacks for key forwards ahead of their highly anticipated Champions League fixture this week.
Manchester City head coach Enzo Maresca and defender Marc Guehi warned that their Champions League fixture against AEK Athens is a "huge game" for the club. Maresca revealed an injury concern over Erling Haaland, while Guehi urged caution against AEK's experienced attack.
Former Manchester United flop Anthony Martial has completed a surprise transfer from AEK Athens to Liga MX side Monterrey Rayados, where he will link up with Real Madrid legend Sergio Ramos. Martial joined the Greek club last summer on a three-year deal, but his stint ended after just one season as his contract was mutually terminated.
The 42-year-old discusses his journey in football that saw him face off against the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, as well as representing his country at a major international tournament and much more
AEK Athens
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