Manchester City have discovered their opponents for the Champions League’s play-off round with Real Madrid awaiting in Europe.
It’s a difficult draw for the Citizens, who must navigate a two-legged tie with the record 15-time winners – and holders – to reach the last 16.
That tie is soon on the horizon in what will be a formidable February for the Blues. Guardiola’s side face a gruelling seven fixtures within a 24-day period, including some real tests at home and in Europe.
City head to Arsenal in the Premier League this weekend to kickstart their tough run. The two teams have vied for the Premier League title in recent seasons and there’s plenty of needle when the sides meet.
In addition to visiting Leyton Orient in the FA Cup’s fourth round next weekend, City face Premier League clashes with Newcastle and Liverpool at the Etihad, either side of their Champions League showdown with Real Madrid.
Their month concludes with a trip to face Tottenham, who have won the last two meetings between the sides.
Manchester City fixtures in February
- 2 Feb – Arsenal (a)
- 8 Feb – Leyton Orient (a) FA Cup fourth round
- 11/12 Feb – Real Madrid (h) Champions League play-off first-leg
- 15 Feb – Newcastle (h)
- 18/19 Feb – Real Madrid (a) Champions League play-off second-leg
- 23 Feb – Liverpool (h)
- 26 Feb – Tottenham (a)
Read – Guardiola says Real Madrid clash ‘feels like a derby’
See more – Eight talking points ahead of the Premier League weekend