Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde has disclosed that he turned down Vinícius Júnior’s offer to take a second-half penalty against Manchester City.
Valverde had already netted a first-half hat trick as Madrid dominated the first leg of their Champions League Round of 16 tie.
In the second half, Los Blancos were presented with an opportunity to extend their three-goal advantage after Vinícius was fouled by goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
The Brazilian winger offered the penalty to Valverde, who declined, and the shot was subsequently saved by Donnarumma.
Valverde told TNT Sports: “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.”