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The day of the UCL semi-final between Real Madrid and Manchester City is inching closer and closer. A blockbuster competition is expected between the two heavyweights. The two teams will clash at the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday night at 12:30 AM to fight for a spot in the finals of the prestigious Champions League. Amidst all the excitement, Wayne Rooney has made an interesting statement about the outcome of the game.

Although the former player appreciates Real Madrid's record, he believed the City are overwhelming favourites to get to the championship game.

The former center-forward told The Times, "Manchester City will not just beat Real Madrid in their Champions League semi-final — they’ll blow them away you can never rule out a team with Real Madrid's experience and history, but I wouldn't bet on them. I think this is City's year."  

Real Madrid are in great form as they have just won the coveted Copa del Rey trophy in Spain. The last time Real Madrid clashed with Manchester City was at the same stage last season. Although Real Madrid kept their cool and won the thrilling match in the second leg, Rooney believes that this year won't be the same for City. 

The now-turned-manager also backed City’s Erling Haaland and said, "A year ago, Madrid eliminated City, but now the dynamics are different. City are more solid in defense and are a more patient team, but the biggest change is the addition of Erling Haaland."

Los Blancos will need to find a way to keep the Norwegian superstar quiet over the course of the two legs if they want to advance to the final.