Real Madrid Player Ratings vs Manchester City: Vinicius Junior Stars in UCL Dominance

Real Madrid secured a dominant 5-1 aggregate victory over Manchester City in the Champions League Round of 16, with standout performances from Vinicius Junior and Thibaut Courtois proving pivotal.

Thibaut Courtois – 8.5

Thibaut Courtois's consistently high-quality performances were again on display. He made several crucial saves in the first half, two of them exceptional, maintaining Real Madrid's control during critical moments before his substitution.

Trent Alexander-Arnold – 4

Trent Alexander-Arnold struggled defensively, with his offensive contributions failing to compensate for his vulnerabilities. Jeremy Doku repeatedly bypassed him, necessitating support from Federico Valverde and Thiago Pitarch. He also failed to clear Doku's cross, leading to Manchester City's goal.

Antonio Rudiger – 6

Antonio Rudiger's performance was mixed; while the defense conceded only once, they allowed numerous chances, fortunate not to concede further. Rudiger improved over the match but struggled at times to contain Erling Haaland.

Dean Huijsen – 7

Dean Huijsen showcased a sharper display than his defensive partner, demonstrating composure and skill on the ball, effectively navigating Real Madrid out of challenging situations. His form continues to improve.

Fran Garcia – 7

Filling in for the injured Ferland Mendy and Alvaro Carreras, Fran Garcia delivered a largely positive performance. He made effective runs forward and notably limited Manchester City's attacks down his flank.

Federico Valverde – 6.5

Federico Valverde had a game of highs and lows. His early miss, despite having done the difficult work, was particularly poor, as was his initial attempt before scoring a goal disallowed for offside. He played a more subdued role in this match.

Thiago Pitarch – 6.5

Thiago Pitarch performed his midfield duties diligently, playing a crucial role in maintaining Real Madrid's central stability. However, he was occasionally bypassed too easily by Doku and conceded possession a few times in his own half.

Aurelien Tchouameni – 8

After a somewhat slow start in the opening 20 minutes, where he struggled to close down Manchester City effectively, Aurelien Tchouameni transformed into the defensive lynchpin expected under Arbeloa. He also contributed positively to attacks, notably delivering a delightful first-time cross for Vinicius's second goal.

Arda Guler – 7.5

Arda Guler once again proved instrumental in Real Madrid's attacking plays, following his brilliant assist for a Vinicius Junior penalty last week. He was the focal point for many of Real Madrid's best moves, effectively linking up with Brahim Diaz and Vinicius.

Brahim Diaz – 7.5

Brahim Diaz delivered a significantly improved performance, constantly driving at the Manchester City defense. He nearly scored a spectacular goal after skillfully beating Ruben Dias but faded somewhat before being substituted in the 70th minute.

Vinicius Junior – 8.5

Despite some poor finishing that prevented a higher score, Vinicius Junior was arguably the best player on the pitch and the catalyst for the match's decisive moments. He repeatedly tormented his marker, eventually securing his second goal in stoppage time by converting a penalty he himself earned. This performance showcased his brilliant best, albeit with room for improvement in front of goal.

Substitutes

Andriy Lunin – 7

Replacing the injured Courtois at halftime, Andriy Lunin appeared sharp and confident. While his saves were mostly routine, he also demonstrated good judgment by coming off his line effectively to intercept a through ball.

Kylian Mbappe – 6.5

Kylian Mbappe had a notable moment where he sped past Rayan Ait-Nouri from midfield after missing a clear chance at the back post. He was arguably unlucky not to win a free-kick after a shirt pull, but this action demonstrated his fitness.