Pep Guardiola said there was no bad blood between Manchester City and Real Madrid after the Spanish giant boycotted last year's Ballon d’Or awards in apparent protest. Madrid did not attend the gala ceremony in Paris in October when City midfielder Rodri was voted the best player in the world ahead of Brazil and Madrid forward Vinicius Junior.

Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola said his side were well aware of Real Madrid's habit of producing their best in tough times, with a string of injuries having depleted the visitors' defence ahead of Tuesday's Champions League playoff.

Pep Guardiola has challenged his Manchester City side to prove they are still "something special" in their blockbuster Champions League tie against Real Madrid despite a turbulent season for the Premier League champions.

Madrid representatives did not attend last year’s ceremony after apparently hearing that City’s Rodri had beaten Vincius Junior to the top prize.

Pep Guardiola admitted injury doubts were stopping him from being clear on his Manchester City XI against Real Madrid. The Blues have a number of players returning from injury, with Ruben Dias playing a half at Leyton Orient and Jeremy Doku,