“It’s a mental issue” – Real Madrid sent ‘serious warning’ about Manchester City

Real Madrid head into Wednesday’s Champions League second leg with Manchester City holding a commanding lead, but journalist Álvaro Benito insists the tie is far from over.

The former Real Madrid player turned Cadena SER analyst believes a 3–0 lead can be more dangerous psychologically than chasing the game.

That belief has prompted a clear message of caution for the Spanish giants.

Álvaro Benito warns against complacency

Speaking on El Larguero, Benito moved quickly to temper the optimism around Madrid’s first‑leg victory.

A Fede Valverde hat‑trick last week has given Madrid a commanding cushion heading into the Etihad this evening. As a result, confidence is growing that qualification should be straightforward. Benito, however, sees that confidence as a potential trap.

“The feeling of being three‑nil up makes you play differently,” he explained.

“We saw it recently with Barça–Atlético. A tie that looked impossible suddenly became alive. Mentally, you have to do a tremendous amount of work to shake that off.”

Why the first goal at the Etihad could change everything

Benito believes the opening minutes in Manchester could define the entire tie. In his view, Madrid cannot afford to rest on their advantage.

“If Real Madrid goes out trying to win a match, it’s very difficult for them to lose 3–0. It’s improbable. The thing is, you already know you’re winning,” he added.

Fellow journalist Rafa Alkorta shares that concern. In fact, he thinks if Manchester City score early, it could cause problems.

“If City scores an early goal, you’re going to drop back a bit without meaning to. Even if the coach hasn’t told you to. And if they’re forced back, they’re finished,” he said.

A mental battle, not a tactical one

Benito’s warning isn’t about tactics, it’s about mindset. He has already seen the issue affect Atlético Madrid and doesn’t want their rivals repeating the mistake.

“It’s a mental issue,” he concluded.

“We saw Atlético the other day: they neither attacked nor defended. That mental approach is the fundamental thing Real Madrid needs.”

Real Madrid may hold the advantage, but the warnings are clear. In the Champions League, comfort is the enemy and Manchester City are the last side Real Madrid can afford to give hope to.