By A Correspondent

Carlo Ancelotti has dubbed the rivalry between Manchester City and Real Madrid a new ‘Clasico’ ahead of their Champions League knockout play-off tie. The two teams have met in the competition for the fourth consecutive year, with the victor going on to win the trophy in each of the previous three encounters.

Ancelotti believes that the team that emerges victorious from this tie will go on to win the Champions League. “It’s a nightmare preparing for games against [Pep Guardiola] because he always has ideas that make you think,” Ancelotti said. “I am convinced the team that goes through from this tie will go on to win the competition.”

Both teams have struggled in the Champions League this season, with Manchester City narrowly avoiding elimination in the group stage and Real Madrid suffering a shock loss to Espanyol. Despite this, Ancelotti’s side has maintained its domestic form, leading the LaLiga table by a point. The first leg of the tie will take place at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday night.