The visiting side were greeted by a huge flag prior to Tuesday’s play-off first leg at the Etihad Stadium poking fun at the Brazilian’s runners-up finish to City midfielder Rodri in the voting for last year’s Ballon d’Or award and Real’s boycott of the ceremony.
Vinicius Junior claimed he was fired up by Manchester City’s fans’ banner after playing a starring role in Real Madrid’s dramatic Champions League victory at the Etihad Stadium.
Yet it was Real who had the last laugh as the banner backfired badly, with Vinicius enjoying a superb game as the Spaniards twice came from behind to win 3-2.
City manager Pep Guardiola claimed he had not seen the banner and instead lamented his side’s latest failure to hold onto a lead in what has been a frustrating campaign.
After sweeping almost all before them in recent years, this season has been a big comedown for City and Guardiola admits he is currently not able to restore the intensity that previously made them formidable.
