Rodrygo Goes, Real Madrid’s Brazilian forward, has set clear conditions to remain with the club: more playing time and a bigger role in Xabi Alonso’s tactical setup. At 24, the number 11 is experiencing a dip in form, relegated to the bench amid competition with stars like Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappé, and Vinicius Jr. Despite this, he has no plans to leave the Spanish capital, according to Spain’s AS newspaper, reported on July 9, 2025. This comes as Real Madrid prepares to face PSG in the Club World Cup. Rodrygo’s patience is being tested, but his belief in turning things around remains strong.
The Brazilian, who has won two Champions Leagues and three La Liga titles, is in a goal drought, going 17 consecutive matches without scoring for club or country. His last goal came in March against Atlético Madrid in the Champions League. Still, he stays focused, banking on reclaiming his spot in the squad.
- Current phase: Rodrygo is a substitute, behind Arda Guler and other starters in Xabi Alonso’s plans.
- Demands: More minutes on the pitch and a central role in the coach’s project.
- External interest: Clubs like Arsenal, Manchester City, and PSG are monitoring, but no firm offers exist.
The relationship between Rodrygo and Real Madrid is one of mutual trust, but the moment calls for decisions that could shape the forward’s future at the club.
🚨 BREAKING: Arsenal are now READY to make an offer of over €90M for Rodrygo Goes after the Club World Cup ends.
— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) July 4, 2025
The player has put talks with Arsenal on stand-by until the tournament ends. @diarioas pic.twitter.com/2ZJ1nlDSv8
Low phase and tactical challenges
Rodrygo is navigating one of the toughest periods since joining Real Madrid in 2019 after shining at Santos. With just two assists in his last 17 games, the Brazilian has lost ground to young Turk Arda Guler, who has impressed Xabi Alonso with consistent performances. Alonso’s arrival brought a new tactical approach, and Rodrygo is still finding his place. Known for his speed and dribbling, the number 11 hasn’t replicated the impact of past seasons, like his decisive goals in the 2022 Champions League semifinal against Manchester City.
The current setup reflects the fierce competition in Real Madrid’s attack. Beyond Bellingham, Mbappé, and Vinicius Jr., who form the main offensive trio, others like Gonzalo García are also getting minutes. This internal rivalry heightens the pressure on Rodrygo, who, despite the board’s confidence, must regain form to justify his demands.
Track record of success at the club
Since debuting for Real Madrid, Rodrygo has posted impressive numbers for his age. With 54 goals in 241 games, the Brazilian has made his mark in top competitions. In 2022, his two goals against Manchester City in the Champions League semifinal were key to reaching the final, which ended in a European title. In the 2024-2025 season, however, his output dropped: just 14 goals in 51 matches, per the club’s official site.
His versatility—playing as a right winger, left winger, or striker—has been a strength in past seasons, but under Alonso, the preference for other players has curbed his opportunities.
Board’s confidence and long-term vision
Florentino Pérez, Real Madrid’s president, remains supportive of the Brazilian. The board views Rodrygo as part of the club’s future, especially with his contract running until June 2028. The lack of concrete offers from interested clubs reinforces Real Madrid’s stance, with no pressure for a departure.
- Contract status: Valid until June 30, 2028, renewed in November 2023.
- Market value: Estimated at 90 million euros, per Transfermarkt.
- Internal outlook: The board trusts in his recovery but expects on-field improvement.
- External interest: Arsenal, Manchester City, and PSG are watching, but no progress has been made.
The Madrid board’s patience contrasts with the need for immediate results, especially in competitions like the Club World Cup, where Real Madrid aims to cement its dominance.
Squad competition and Arda Guler’s role
Arda Guler’s rise is a key reason for Rodrygo’s bench role. The 20-year-old Turk has earned Xabi Alonso’s trust with strong performances and crucial goals. His ability to play in midfield or attack makes him a versatile asset, taking the spot Rodrygo once held. Spanish media highlight Guler as one of Europe’s top prospects, adding pressure on Rodrygo to reclaim his place.
The arrival of new talents, like Argentine Franco Mastantuono, could further complicate Rodrygo’s situation. Real Madrid’s board plans to bolster the squad with young stars, intensifying internal competition.
Moment with the Brazilian national team
Rodrygo also faces challenges with Brazil. With 33 caps and seven goals since debuting in 2019, he hasn’t secured a regular starting role. His last notable performance was in February 2022, scoring against Paraguay in World Cup qualifiers. At the 2022 World Cup, he had limited impact, coming off the bench in two matches and starting in the loss to Cameroon.
His lack of goals for Brazil mirrors his club struggles. Still, Rodrygo remains hopeful of regaining his spot, especially with the 2026 World Cup qualifiers approaching.
Club World Cup preparations
Real Madrid is gearing up to face PSG in the Club World Cup, a match that could be pivotal for Rodrygo. The 2025 tournament offers the Brazilian a chance to prove his worth and convince Alonso he deserves more minutes. The competition also puts Real Madrid in the spotlight, with pressure to maintain its international supremacy.
Rodrygo has been training hard, per Spanish media, and is determined to seize any opportunity. His experience in high-stakes tournaments could be an edge, but competing with Mbappé and Vinicius Jr. demands a higher level of performance.
History of resilience and overcoming
Rodrygo’s career is defined by overcoming challenges. Emerging from Santos, where he scored 17 goals in 80 games, he joined Real Madrid at 18 and faced the task of adapting to one of the world’s most demanding clubs. His knack for decisive goals, like against Chelsea in the 2022 Champions League, shows he can turn things around.
Off the field, Rodrygo is disciplined. A father of twins, he lives in Madrid with his family and maintains a football-focused routine. His long-standing Nike deal, started at age 11, underscores his status as a leading Brazilian athlete.
Outlook in the European market
While Rodrygo isn’t planning to leave Real Madrid, interest from Arsenal, Manchester City, and PSG keeps his name in the spotlight. These clubs see him as a young player with big-game experience and growth potential. However, the absence of firm offers suggests the market is waiting for clarity on his situation in Spain.
The January 2026 transfer window will be critical. If Rodrygo fails to regain his spot, rumors of a move could intensify. For now, his focus is clear: reclaiming a starting role and proving his value at Real Madrid.
Next steps at Real Madrid
Rodrygo faces a season full of challenges. Beyond the Club World Cup, Real Madrid competes in La Liga, the Champions League, and the Copa del Rey, tournaments requiring a deep, competitive squad. For the Brazilian, each match is a chance to show he can still be a key piece in Alonso’s system.
The Spanish coach, known for his innovative tactics, must find a way to integrate Rodrygo without disrupting the squad’s balance. The player-coach relationship will be crucial for the number 11’s future at the club.
