Real Madrid star, Vinicius Jr., responded to a provocative banner displayed by Manchester City fans during the Champions League semi-final first leg on Tuesday, saying, those things give me more strength.
During an interview with Movistar, the Brazilian star shared his pride in his performance at the Etihad Stadium.
Noting that “Whenever the opposing fans do things like that they give me more strength to have a great game and here I have done it.”
The banner, positioned behind one of the goals at the Etihad Stadium, depicted City midfielder Rodri receiving the Ballon d’Or at Vinicius’ expense with an Oasis-inspired message, “Stop Crying Your Heart Out.”
However, Vinicius had the final word on the night, earning the MVP award in Real Madrid’s crucial 3-2 comeback victory.
Madrid equalized twice after Erling Haaland’s goals, before Jude Bellingham sealed the win with a dramatic strike in the 92nd minute.
When asked if he had seen the banner, Vinicius confirmed, “Yes, but whenever the opposing fans do things like that, they give me more strength to play a great game, and here I’ve done it.”
The Brazilian winger also reflected on Madrid’s deep history in the competition, adding, “They know our history, everything we do in this competition. It’s the fifth time we’ve come, it’s always very cold, but this time we won, and we have to continue this way.”
Despite being the standout performer, Vinicius stressed the importance of the team’s effort, “I was able to play a great game, we defended very well, and it doesn’t matter who scores goals or is the MVP. We are here to do great things for this shirt and put Madrid in the highest place.” He even joked about Kylian Mbappe’s awkward goal attempt: “The important thing was to win, it doesn’t matter what it is. On the last move I tried to shoot, and it went to Jude.”
Looking ahead to the return leg at the Bernabeu, Vinicius remained cautious, “There’s still a lot left to play in the second leg. We have to defend like we did today and have our fans with us to create a magical night.”
Known for his fiery temperament, Vinicius acknowledged his recent disciplinary issues but vowed to improve, “Sometimes it’s complicated. The referees don’t defend the player who receives the kicks … when they kick me, the yellow card is for me. But my teammates, the coaches, they try to help me stay focused. I’m not a saint, but I want to win in any way.”
When pressed on rumours about a potential move to Saudi Arabia and his reported rejection of a contract extension with Madrid, Vinicius brushed off the speculation, claiming ignorance.
