Vinicius Junior said that a banner aiming a dig at his Ballon d’Or snub inspired him in Real Madrid’s Champions League play-off win at Manchester City on Tuesday.

Some City supporters were seen holding up a banner showing City midfielder Rodri with the Ballon d’Or trophy beside the caption, “Stop crying your heart out.”

Vinicius was tipped to claim the trophy back in October but was pipped by Rodri, who had won the Premier League with City and Euro 2024 with Spain.

The Brazilian, along with his Madrid team-mates, chose to boycott the event, with much of the pre-match build-up to Tuesday’s clash surrounding the Ballon d’Or.

However, Vinicius exacted some revenge in their first leg tie, notching the assist for Jude Bellingham’s 92nd-minute winner in a 3-2 victory over Pep Guardiola’s side.

Speaking after the game, Vinicius said he used the mocking banner as fuel, after also ending the contest having created more chances (five) than anyone on the pitch.

“Yes, I saw it. At times, the opposing fans do things which spur me on to put in a great performance,” Vinicius said.

“I did that again here tonight, and we managed to win the game. We have to get back to Madrid and our fans will make it special.

“The return leg will be tough, but we have to keep this up and defend like we did tonight to ensure another magical night in front of our fans.”