Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior was 'even more motivated' ahead of their Champions League clash with Manchester City after a banner mocking him emerged online. Vinicius, 24, was the favourite to win last year's Ballon d'Or but the award went to City midfielder Rodri in a surprise decision. The snub angered Real Madrid chiefs so much that they didn't send a single delegate to the ceremony in Paris, despite manager Carlo Ancelotti winning Coach of the Year and many of their other players being on the Ballon d'Or shortlist.
On Tuesday, City host Real Madrid in a Champions League play-off first leg, as both teams who underperformed in the league phase will battle it out for a place in the last 16. City fans are planning to unveil a banner which shows Rodri kissing the Ballon d'Or. In large text, the words 'Stop Crying Your Heart out' are displayed. It's a reference to Oasis' hit 2002 single, written by City fan Noel Gallagher and sung by his brother, Liam.
The banner will be shown five minutes before kick-off in the South Stand of the Etihad Stadium until after the Champions League pre-match anthem finishes. Real Madrid are aware of the stunt but Spanish outlet El Chiringuito say that they are 'not bothered' by it. Vinicius himself is aware of the message and feels 'even more motivated' to beat City in their own backyard. The Brazilian forward was part of the Real Madrid team who beat Pep Guardiola's side at the Etihad last year on penalties, reaching the semi-finals.
The Ballon d'Or controversy has been among the main talking points ahead of Tuesday's match, with Ancelotti going on record to double down on Real Madrid's decision to boycott the October ceremony. "I don't think it was the wrong decision," he declared. Will Vinicius Junior get the last laugh? Give us your score prediction in the comments section. "We thought Vini was the winner of the Ballon d'Or. It doesn't mean we don't respect Rodri because he is a fantastic player. I think Rodri deserved to win it the year before.".
City boss Guardiola said that there was 'absolutely' no resentment at his club over the incident, adding: "I was happy for Rodri but Vinicius made an extraordinary year as well. He could deserve it, like in the past when [Lionel] Messi and Cristiano [Ronaldo] were fighting for it. So, the subject is over.". Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
