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.

The UEFA Champions League returns this week for the competition's first-ever knockout phase playoffs, when some of Europe's top teams will be pitted against each other for a spot in the round of 16. Headlining the action will be Manchester City's clash with Real Madrid as the last two Champions League winners duke it out for one spot in the next round,