Pep Guardiola has made it clear that Manchester City have moved past the Ballon d’Or controversy with Real Madrid as the two European giants prepare for their highly anticipated Champions League showdown.
The Spanish club had notably boycotted the prestigious ceremony in Paris last October in protest of City’s midfielder Rodri winning the award over Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior.
However, ahead of their first-leg clash at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday, Guardiola dismissed any lingering tensions between the clubs.
“Happy for Rodri,” Guardiola said when asked about the fallout. “Vinícius had an extraordinary year as well. He deserved it. Just like in the past when Messi and Cristiano battled for the award. The subject is over.”
Rúben Dias, who attended the Ballon d’Or event alongside Rodri, also played down any controversy. “Being very honest, I didn’t spend a second thinking if it was disrespectful or not,” he said.
“I was there, I celebrated with him, and I was very happy for him. I didn’t dwell on it.”
Champions League Rivalry Continues
This latest showdown marks the fifth time in six seasons that City and Madrid have been drawn together in the Champions League.
Last season, Real Madrid triumphed on penalties, while in 2023, City dominated with a 4-0 victory at the Etihad on their way to an unforgettable treble.
However, this time, Guardiola faces an even greater challenge, as Madrid’s attacking firepower has been bolstered by the addition of Kylian Mbappé.
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The French superstar has already netted 23 goals in his debut season with Los Blancos, including a crucial strike in their recent 1-1 draw with Atlético Madrid.
Guardiola Aware of Real Madrid’s Attacking Threat
Guardiola acknowledged the difficulty of containing Madrid’s dangerous front line, which features Mbappé, Vinícius, Rodrygo, and Jude Bellingham.
“I think it’s impossible to control these four players for 90 or 180 minutes,” Guardiola admitted.
“They are exceptional—how they combine, their movement, their ability one-on-one, their ball control. Everyone knows their quality. We just have to limit their involvement as much as possible.”
City’s Weapons: Haaland and Company Ready for Battle
While Madrid pose a serious attacking threat, Dias reminded everyone that City have plenty of firepower of their own, including Erling Haaland.
“Since I have been here, this has been the most difficult season, but I firmly believe that even in the toughest situations, you can achieve something great,” Dias said.
“We know how difficult this match will be, but we have plenty of weapons in our squad, and we just need to use them wisely.”
As two of Europe’s biggest clubs prepare for yet another high-stakes battle, all eyes will be on the Etihad to see if City can take a step closer to retaining their Champions League crown or if Madrid will once again have the upper hand in this elite rivalry.
