Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde reveals he declined Vinicius Jr’s request to take a second-half penalty against Manchester City in the UCL

Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde has disclosed that he declined a second-half penalty offered by teammate Vinicius Jr during their Champions League Round of 16 first-leg clash against Manchester City.

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Valverde had already scored a first-half hat-trick, putting Los Blancos in a commanding position. In the second half, Vinicius was fouled by Manchester City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, earning a penalty.

The Brazilian winger offered Valverde the chance to take the spot kick, but the midfielder refused.

The penalty was subsequently taken by Vinicius, who missed. Speaking to TNT Sports, Valverde said: “Vini Jr asked me if I wanted to take the penalty.

Vini is a Real Madrid legend, he’s a great friend, me and other teammates told him to take it. Vini missed? These things can happen, it’s part of football.”

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Valverde’s decision underlined the trust and camaraderie within the Real Madrid squad, even in high-stakes Champions League fixtures. The first-leg victory positions Los Blancos favourably ahead of the return match.