“You told me to stop crying after Rodri’s Ballon d’Or win,” Vinicius goes after Man City supporters

Real Madrid winger Vinícius Júnior spoke about his notable celebration during the victory over Manchester City in the Champions League. Despite missing a penalty in the away leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, the Brazilian international was decisive in the return, scoring a brace at the Etihad Stadium. A high-level performance that largely contributed to Real Madrid’s qualification, winners over the two legs (5-1).

When celebrating one of his goals, Vinícius sent a clear message, miming “stop crying”. He later explained the gesture, citing a particular context linked to his previous spell in Manchester. “The last time we came here, City fans were mocking me,” he said, referring to a banner unfurled in the stands after the 2024 Ballon d’Or was awarded to Rodri, to the detriment of the Brazilian.

However, the Madrid winger clarified his gesture: “It wasn’t a sign of disrespect. It was simply a way to respond on the pitch and prove my worth.” A striking response, in a match where Vinícius Júnior again asserted his status as a decisive player on the European stage.