Real Madrid has secured the signing of Kylian Mbappe this summer, but the club might face a significant change with Brazilian forward Rodrygo reportedly considering leaving the Santiago Bernabeu.
Rodrygo’s recent performances for Brazil in the Copa America have not met expectations, culminating in the Selecao’s elimination in the quarter-finals. This underwhelming display has fueled speculation about his future with Real Madrid.
Rodrygo is set to return to Spain and join the team for pre-season preparations. Despite his uncertain future, he remains a significant figure at Valdebebas. This uncertainty might surprise some, given Rodrygo’s crucial role in Real Madrid’s successful 2023-24 campaign.
He was instrumental in their run to win both the Champions League and La Liga titles, contributing to eight goals in the Champions League and 15 in La Liga. These achievements underscored his versatility and importance to the team’s offensive capabilities.
However, the arrival of Kylian Mbappe, a superstar in his own right, has created intense competition for attacking positions, casting doubt on Rodrygo’s playing time. Reports from El Nacional suggest that Rodrygo’s prospects of securing regular starting opportunities have diminished.
His lackluster performance in the Copa America, where he played four matches without scoring, has further complicated his situation.
Despite these challenges, Rodrygo is still valued highly by Real Madrid’s head coach Carlo Ancelotti. Ancelotti’s regard for the young Brazilian suggests that he will have a role within the team, although it may not be as prominent as he might have hoped.
With a contract extending until 2026, Rodrygo’s place in the squad is secure, but whether he will be content with potentially reduced playing time is uncertain. If Real Madrid cannot assure him of more minutes on the pitch, the possibility of him seeking an exit grows stronger.
The scenario of Rodrygo potentially leaving Real Madrid is juxtaposed with the high expectations surrounding Vinicius Junior, another Brazilian star at the club.
Brazilian football legend Rivaldo recently remarked that Vinicius Junior has the potential to surpass even Kylian Mbappe, tipping him as a future Ballon d’Or winner. This endorsement highlights the internal competition and high standards within Real Madrid’s squad.
Kylian Mbappe’s transfer to Real Madrid was anticipated by many, but before the official announcement, Rivaldo emphasized that Real Madrid already possessed an exceptional talent in Vinicius Junior.
This sentiment underscores the depth of quality within the team and the competitive environment Rodrygo finds himself in.
