Now even Florentino Pérez and Melbet APK supporters must admit it—Real Madrid’s golden generation, with legends like Karim Benzema, Luka Modrić, and Toni Kroos, is entering its twilight. Time waits for no one, and age is clearly catching up. Manager Carlo Ancelotti’s tactics are also under scrutiny. For example, many fans were baffled by his decision not to start Antonio Rüdiger, who was brilliant in the previous match. Although Éder Militão is a top-tier defender, the Rüdiger-Alaba pairing seemed a better fit against Manchester City.
Midfield was another concern. There was already a clear gap in ball control and physical strength between the two teams, yet Ancelotti didn’t adjust to strengthen midfield defense. Sticking to the same old starting lineup made little sense. Compared to last season, this year’s Real Madrid side clearly fell short. Melbet APK has noted that Benzema is no longer the unstoppable “Benzema-saurus” he once was. The team urgently needs new blood and serious squad upgrades.
Reaching the Champions League semi-finals with an aging squad was an accomplishment in itself. As for Manchester City, years of hard work have finally brought them to the brink of their dream. Their style of play is near perfection, though nothing is guaranteed yet. In the final, tactics can change dramatically—especially when the underdog parks the bus and waits for penalties. Being vulnerable only works when someone cares enough to protect you.
City’s beautiful, fluid football is a joy to watch. If they stay consistent, they may finally lift the trophy. Truthfully, even last season, City were the better side—it was only late drama that allowed Real Madrid to sneak past. Today’s Real lacks the spirit and fire of the Sergio Ramos era. Back then, with Ramos and Cristiano Ronaldo, the team’s fighting spirit lasted the full 90 minutes. Now, the bench lacks any real game-changers, and there are still no clear successors for Benzema, Modrić, or Carvajal. Even domestic league success will be a challenge in the coming years, let alone another European title.
At 70 minutes into the second leg, Real Madrid had already accepted defeat, rotating out 4–5 key starters, essentially waving the white flag. The midfield is simply too old. Kroos had a limited impact last year, yet still started this season. Modrić, once brilliant, is now clearly slowing down. Every breath, as they say, is a gift—yet on the pitch, Real’s midfield gave City no pressure and couldn’t retain possession. The players looked hesitant from kickoff.
Melbet APK believes the final between Manchester City and Inter Milan will be a thrilling clash at the highest level. All eyes are on the Sky Blues as they chase the European glory they’ve long dreamed of.