The Belgian midfielder suddenly had to sit on the bench in Man City’s 3-3 draw with Real in the Champions League quarterfinals first leg on the morning of April 10.

“De Bruyne vomited. He doesn’t feel well. I also don’t know the reason. During the team meeting, he was still healthy and ready to play. However, right before the match, De Bruyne suddenly vomited and told me he couldn’t play,” coach Pep Guardiola stated as the reason for De Bruyne sitting on the bench.

“This is definitely not good news. However, the match takes place in two legs, so every player will have a chance to play,” the Spanish coach added.

On the day without the “conductor”, Man City’s attack was quite deadlocked. Pep Guardiola’s team scored 3 goals, but they all came from individual efforts. Bernardo Silva, Phil Foden and Josko Gvardiol scored from outside the penalty area to help Man City draw 3-3 at the Bernabeu.

Meanwhile, the main attack of “The Cityzens”, Erling Haaland, disappeared. Except for the shot blocked by goalkeeper Lunin in the 6th minute, the Norwegian striker did not leave any significant mark until the final whistle sounded.

However, fans and experts are still satisfied with the performance of both clubs. During the post-match commentary, former player Michael Owen said: “A high-class match. 6 goals have been scored and everything is ready for the return leg. I think this score will satisfy Man City. Surely Real has not forgotten what happened last year at the Etihad.”

Meanwhile, the owner of the superb curling goal against Real, Gvardiol said: “A great match. For the first time, I enjoyed the fiery atmosphere at the Bernabeu. Of course, we want to win at home.”