Manchester City fans are preparing to take a playful dig at Real Madrid and their star winger, Vinicius Jr, ahead of their highly-anticipated Champions League showdown on Tuesday, February 11, 2025.
A provocative banner aimed at the Brazilian forward is set to be unveiled at the Etihad Stadium.
Real Madrid’s Champions League triumph in the 2023/2024 season was clouded by controversy after Vinicius Jr was snubbed for the Ballon d’Or in favor of Manchester City midfielder, Rodri. Rodri edged out both Vinicius Jr and Jude Bellingham to claim the prestigious award, leading to Real Madrid boycotting the ceremony in protest.
Now, as Vinicius Jr and his teammates prepare to take on City, the Premier League champions are set to, literally, add fuel to the fire. According to WeAre1894 on X, a Manchester City supporters’ group, a banner featuring Rodri holding his Ballon d’Or trophy will be displayed just before kickoff, accompanied by the taunting message: “Stop crying your heart out.”
Unsurprisingly, the build-up to the match has been dominated by the fallout from the 2024 Ballon d’Or snub, adding extra tension to an already high-stakes encounter.
With both clubs vying for a place in the Champions League last 16, all eyes will be on the second leg, set for Wednesday, February 19, 2025.
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