Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti has on Monday provided an insight into the reasoning behind the club’s call not to send representatives to last year’s Ballon d’Or gala.The subject of the

Carlo Ancelotti defended Real Madrid's decision to boycott last year's Ballon d'Or awards ahead of his team's Champions League playoff against Manchester City. Madrid did not attend October's gala ceremony after Vinicius Junior was beaten to soccer's most prestigious individual prize by City midfielder Rodri.

Real Madrid’s Ballon d’Or snub does add an interesting layer to the meeting between the two teams. It’s yet another storyline ahead of the blockbuster Champions League tie. Although Pep Guardiola won’t admit it you do wonder if Manchester City will seize upon it for extra motivation ahead of their meeting with the current European champions.