According to Pep Guardiola, Manchester City has reached a breaking point in their Champions League matchup with Real Madrid over the Ballon d’Or dispute. In October, the Spanish powerhouses skipped the Paris ceremony in protest at City player Rodri’s victory over Vinícius Júnior. Tuesday’s Champions League play-off first leg between the two teams will take place at Etihad Stadium. Additionally, Guardiola stated prior to the match that there is no animosity between the clubs.
Guardiola responded, “Happy for Rodri,” when asked about his thoughts on the drama. Additionally, Vinícius had a remarkable year. It was deserved. similar to the time when Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi were battling for it. I’m done talking. Even Rúben Dias, who accompanied Rodri to Paris for the event, tried to downplay the conflict. “To be completely honest, I didn’t even consider whether it was disrespectful,” he stated. I joined him in celebrating and was thrilled for him. I didn’t dwell on it.
Guardiola addresses Ballon d’Or rift
Rodri’s absence did not, however, prevent questions concerning the Ballon d’Or drama from being directed at the respective managers prior to the crucial match between Real Madrid and Manchester City. During his pregame press conference, Guardiola was asked if there was any animosity toward Real Madrid after their Ballon d’Or snub. His response was defiant.
When Real Madrid was voted the 2024 Men’s Coach of the Year, Ancelotti was unable to pick up his title in person because they chose not to attend the Ballon d’Or honors. However, Ancelotti continues to maintain that it was the proper choice to postpone the event, saying he thinks Rodri should have won in 2023 instead of 2024. Before Tuesday’s first leg, Ancelotti told reporters, “I don’t think it was the wrong decision.” “We assumed Vini was the Ballon d’Or winner.
Vinicius is anticipated to start for Ancelotti against Real Madrid in the first leg, along with Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe, while Rodri will not play. “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.” After facing off at Etihad Stadium, the two teams will rematch at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday for the second leg.
