Premier league

UEFA initially blamed the late arrival of fans for the delayed kickoff, which was quickly shot down by journalists and supporters before further comments from French chiefs invoked fury.

UEFA faced criticism after blaming the delayed kickoff on the “late arrival” of supporters, but Liverpool have since called for a formal investigation to be launched into the events that occurred outside the stadium.

Bale was an unused substitute in Saturday’s clash, while he only made seven appearances for Real Madrid during the 2021-22 campaign, having struggled with a number of injury problems.

Ancelotti has become the most successful manager in the history of the competition, lifting the trophy on four separate occasions, including twice with Real Madrid.

While Courtois has a long-term future at Bernabeu, still having more than four years left to run on his contract, Marcelo’s deal with the La Liga champions is due to expire at the end of June.

Alaba has been a vital player for Real Madrid during the 2021-22 campaign, making 45 appearances in all competitions, contributing three goals and four assists in the process.

Alexander-Arnold played in the 3-1 final defeat to Real Madrid in 2018 before featuring again on the grandest stage a year later, helping Liverpool beat Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 to lift the Champions League trophy.

Benzema scored five times in the group stage of the competition, drawing a blank against Inter Milan in the middle of September before registering against Sheriff Tiraspol and Shakhtar Donetsk in four straight games.

Four Liverpool players were named in the lineup, with Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk, Andy Robertson and Fabinho all making the eleven.

The Merseysiders have been crowned champions of Europe six times, an honour that has eluded City throughout their entire history, even with Guardiola at the helm since 2016.