Manchester City have officially named their Champions League knockout stage squad, but January signing Vitor Reis has been left out, while injured midfielder Rodri has surprisingly been included.
Reis Misses Out Despite January Arrival
Pep Guardiola oversaw a significant mid-season overhaul, with Omar Marmoush, Abdukodir Khusanov, Nico Gonzalez, and Vitor Reis arriving for a combined £180m—more than half of the Premier League’s total winter spending.
However, UEFA regulations only allow clubs to make three changes to their original Champions League squad submitted in September. With four new signings, one had to be left out, and Reis was the unfortunate casualty.
Despite his talent, the 19-year-old Brazilian defender has limited senior experience and has never played in European competitions. Guardiola previously admitted:
“Vitor Reis is young, has a huge personality, but needs time.”
Rodri’s Surprise Inclusion Despite ACL Injury
Rodri, who suffered an ACL injury in September and was expected to miss the entire season, has made a shock return to the squad. The reigning Ballon d’Or holder has been working towards an early comeback, and his inclusion suggests optimism about his recovery.
City Face Tough Champions League Challenge
Before Rodri can make an impact, City must overcome Real Madrid in the new knockout play-off round. The first leg will be held at the Etihad on February 12, with the return leg at the Bernabéu on February 19.
Man City’s Full Champions League Knockout Squad
Goalkeepers
- Ederson
- Stefan Ortega
- Scott Carson
Defenders
- Manuel Akanji
- Nathan Ake
- Ruben Dias
- John Stones
- Abdukodir Khusanov
- Josko Gvardiol
Midfielders
- Nico Gonzalez
- Ilkay Gündogan
- Jack Grealish
- Kevin De Bruyne
- Bernardo Silva
- Rodri
- Mateo Kovacic
- Matheus Nunes
- James McAtee
- Phil Foden
- Jeremy Doku
- Savinho
Forwards
- Erling Haaland
- Omar Marmoush
Champions League B List
- Oscar Bobb
- Max Alleyne
- Rico Lewis
- Nico O’Reilly
With Rodri’s surprise inclusion and Reis missing out, all eyes will be on Guardiola’s tactics as City prepare for their showdown against Real Madrid.
