Real Madrid split on Rodrygo's future: Sell or stick?

On his way out

Rodrygo Goes could be on his way out of Real Madrid as the rumours of his departure persist around the Santiago Bernabéu. The Brazilian forward has had his ups and downs, however, this last season has left him in a very vulnerable spot.

Two options

There is an ongoing debate at the Bernabéu: should Rodrygo stay, or is it time to put him up for sale? Since his arrival in the first team in 2019-2020, the Brazilian slowly earned his way to the starting XI through incredible goals and good football. Now, things appear to have changed...

Angry and undervalued

Spanish publications like AS and Marca echoed the controversy and frustration within the dressing room, highlighting the player's anger on the matter. Despite the controversy, Ancelotti continued to count on him as a regular starter.

Controversial absence from the 'Clásico'

Things took a turn for the worse after he missed the final El Clásico of the season. According to Marca, the Brazilian was “dropped out” of the squad, with reports suggesting “he wasn't feeling good enough to play”. This decision only added more fuel to the fire surrounding his future at Real Madrid.

He withdraws from training and rumors grow

Most recently, the Brazilian withdrew himself from training and confirmed his absence ahead of the RCD Mallorca match. He seems keen on studying his options ahead of the summer transfer window.

Faith in Güler

Furthermore, Ancelotti's decision to use Arda Güler ahead of him in recent matches has also been a major reason for the change in attitude.

Deserves more

This is where fans and pundits struggle to pick a side, as Rodrygo has been a loyal player for the club and has proven his commitment time and time again. However, recent performances prove he is not up to standards right now.

His numbers at Real Madrid

He joined the Spanish club in 2017, first working his way up from Real Madrid Castilla before making his official debut for the first team in 2019. The Brazilian has played a total of 267 official matches, scoring 68 goals and providing 46 assists, per Transfermarkt.

Mr. Champions League

However, what really made Rodrygo a fan favourite was his 'magic' during big Champions League knockouts. Major goals and last minute comebacks made him a key figure in the team between 2022-2024.

His performance with the team has dropped

Rodrygo has also been criticised for his underwhelming amount of goals per season for a striker playing at Real Madrid. His best season in that regard was during the 2022-23 season, where he scored 19 goals.

No longer want to play for Real Madrid?

Following the latest incident, in which he withdrew from training, 'Radio Marca' stated that the Brazilian forward "is not only considering leaving, but he simply doesn't want to play for Real Madrid again," not even in the Club World Cup, which will take place between June and July.

Isolated

A question that journalist Felipe del Campo put into context, stating that Rodrygo “saw himself as the great star of Real Madrid alongside Vinícius, with whom he no longer has the great relationship he had before, and has been overtaken by the popularity of Bellingham and then Mbappé”.

Memories of another time

Similar scenes happened during the summer of 2024, when there was also talk of a possible exit, rumours that the player himself fuelled by praising one of his suitors in an interview with GQ: “Manchester City is the best team in the world,” he said at the time.

Major asset

Today, the situation seems even more skewed than it was then. If that weren't enough, Rodrygo is one of the biggest assets in the Real Madrid squad to raise money to undertake a major (and expensive) overhaul of the squad.

Off to the Premier League?

In that sense, Florentino Pérez will have no problem finding a place for him elsewhere in exchange for a substantial sum of millions. Many media outlets point out that the Brazilian footballer has a strong reputation, especially in the Premier League, but also among other major European clubs.

Big names, big options

According to the French publication Sports Zone, “PSG want Rodrygo. The player has already contacted Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester City, and Real Madrid is not opposed to selling him”.

Club finances

Rodrygos departure from the club would also have a huge impact on wage caps within the dressing room. The Brazilian is linked with the club until 2029, hinting at a high offer for the forward.