Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has insisted that the club's decision to boycott the Ballon d'Or ceremony last year was justified, despite criticism for their actions. Ancelotti believes Vinicius Jr. deserved to win the award over Manchester City's Rodri, who ultimately triumphed. Meanwhile, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has expressed understanding for Real Madrid's stance, stating that the matter is closed. Guardiola acknowledged the immense talent in Real Madrid's attacking line, expressing the difficulty of containing players like Vinicius Jr., Kylian Mbappe, and Jude Bellingham.
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has defended the club's decision to boycott last year's Ballon d'Or ceremony. Real Madrid felt that Vinicius Jr. deserved to win the award over Manchester City midfielder Rodri, who ultimately took home the prize. Despite criticism that the club's absence from the event lacked respect, Ancelotti maintains that it was the right call.
\In his pre-match press conference ahead of Real Madrid's Champions League clash against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium, Ancelotti stated, 'I don't think it was the wrong decision. We thought Vini was the winner of the Ballon D'Or. It doesn't mean we don't respect Rodri - because he is a fantastic player - and I think Rodri deserved to win it the year before.' \Meanwhile, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola expressed understanding for Real Madrid's stance, stating, 'Absolutely not' when asked if any resentment lingered towards Real Madrid for their boycott. Guardiola added, 'I was happy for Rodri, but Vinicius made an extraordinary year as well. He could deserve it, like in the past when Messi and Cristiano were fighting for it. So, the subject is over.' Guardiola acknowledged the formidable attacking talents at Real Madrid's disposal, including Kylian Mbappe, Rodrygo, Jude Bellingham, and Vinicius Jr. He emphasized the challenge of containing these players for an extended period, stating, 'I think it's impossible for 90 minutes, 180 minutes or 200 minutes - it depends on extra time - to control these four players. Everybody knows they are exceptional. How they combine, the runners, their ability one against one, how they keep the ball - we know that it is going to happen. We accept it and have to reduce their involvement as much as possible. At the same time we are going to try to impose our game and be smart, especially in the first leg. We have to play to get a good result for Bernabeu.'
BALLON D'or REAL MADRID CARLO ANCELOTTI PEP GUARDIOLA MANCHESTER CITY VINICIUS JR RODRI CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
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