Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini fears that the UEFA Champions League match between CSKA Moscow and his team could be called off in the next 24 hours if it rains due to the poor condition of the pitch.

As pictured above, the state of the pitch at the Khimki Arena is appalling with large amounts of sand deposited on the field. According to Manchester Evening News reporter Stu Brennan, he says that “I’ve seen photos of pitch from higher up and it looks worse. Large patches of sand. No rain forecast, that might save it being a farce.”

Pellegrini said:

“I just saw the pitch and I think it’s unbelievable that the most important cup competition in the world is allowed to be played on this pitch.

“We must pray on Wednesday that it’s not raining. If it’s raining, it will be impossible to play on this pitch.

“It could be called off. I didn’t believe it when I saw the pitch, both for the two teams and also for the people who will watch the game.

“This is the most important competition in the world, and it deserves a better pitch.

“I think if it’s not raining there will be no risk for an injury but it’s not a grass pitch.”

Photo credit: @StuBrennanMEN

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