The Manchester City supporters’ group "We Are 1894" has clarified the meaning behind the banner displayed at Etihad Stadium, featuring Rodri kissing the Ballon d'Or, following widespread speculation. The group denied that the message was directed at Vinícius Júnior, revealing instead that it was aimed at Real Madrid’s president, Florentino Pérez.

A Message with a Different Target

During the match, a section of City fans unveiled a giant banner showing Rodri holding the Ballon d'Or, accompanied by the Oasis song "Stop Crying Your Heart Out", which translates to "Stop Crying".

Initially, many believed the message was a taunt aimed at Vinícius, who had celebrated in the first leg by pointing at the Real Madrid badge and its 15 Champions League titles. However, the supporters’ group took to social media to set the record straight, insisting that the intended recipient was Florentino Pérez.

"Has nobody in the media realized that the person this was meant for wasn’t even on the field? Florentino Pérez. He was the one who orchestrated a smear campaign against Rodri and boycotted the Ballon d'Or ceremony," they stated.

Real Madrid's Stance on the Ballon d’Or

Reports suggest that Real Madrid decided to cancel their trip to Paris for the Ballon d'Or gala after learning that the award would go to Rodri instead of Vinícius Júnior. Despite this, other club members were honored at the event, including Carlo Ancelotti.