Why Rodrygo did not play in El Clasico as Real Madrid exit looms
Rodrygo Goes, once considered a rising star for Real Madrid, did not play in the recent El Clasico against Barcelona, signaling his desire to leave the club. Feeling sidelined by new arrivals like Jude Bellingham and overshadowed by Kylian Mbappe, Rodrygo is frustrated with his diminishing role and influence in the team. His decision to skip the match is seen as a powerful statement, and sources indicate he has no intention of wearing the Real Madrid shirt again unless it's to leave. The strained relationship with teammate Vinicius Jr. and his underwhelming performance in La Liga with six goals and six assists have compounded his discontent. As Real Madrid prepares for a future under Xabi Alonso, Rodrygo's potential departure is being closely monitored by Premier League clubs and possibly Bayern Munich and Saudi teams.
Context:
Rodrygo Goes, once considered a rising star for Real Madrid, did not play in the recent El Clasico against Barcelona, signaling his desire to leave the club. Feeling sidelined by new arrivals like Jude Bellingham and overshadowed by Kylian Mbappe, Rodrygo is frustrated with his diminishing role and influence in the team. His decision to skip the match is seen as a powerful statement, and sources indicate he has no intention of wearing the Real Madrid shirt again unless it's to leave. The strained relationship with teammate Vinicius Jr. and his underwhelming performance in La Liga with six goals and six assists have compounded his discontent. As Real Madrid prepares for a future under Xabi Alonso, Rodrygo's potential departure is being closely monitored by Premier League clubs and possibly Bayern Munich and Saudi teams.
Dive Deeper:
Rodrygo Goes decided not to participate in Real Madrid's El Clasico match against Barcelona, which ended in a 4-3 loss, as he is determined to leave the club due to feeling marginalized.
The arrival of high-profile players like Jude Bellingham and the prominence of Kylian Mbappe have left Rodrygo feeling overshadowed and concerned about his future role in the team.
Sources indicate that Rodrygo has resolved not to play for Real Madrid again unless it involves packing up to leave, expressing a clear message through his absence in the crucial game.
The once close relationship between Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr. has reportedly deteriorated, contributing to Rodrygo's frustration and decision to seek opportunities elsewhere.
Despite his talent, Rodrygo's contribution of six goals and six assists in La Liga has not been enough to secure his place in the spotlight, further fueling his desire to exit.
Rodrygo's potential departure has attracted interest from major Premier League clubs, with Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester United reportedly interested, alongside Bayern Munich and Saudi clubs.
Real Madrid is preparing for a new phase under the prospective leadership of Xabi Alonso, and unless circumstances change significantly, Rodrygo is unlikely to be part of their future plans.
The El Clasico is where legends are made. But last weekend, one name was missing from the pitch. Rodrygo Goes, a player once tipped to be Real Madrid’s next big thing, decided not to play.
And now, the reason behind it is becoming clearer — he wants out.
Rodrygo’s refusal to feature in Madrid’s 4-3 loss to Barcelona wasn’t just about form. It was a message.
Sources close to the club say the Brazilian forward has made up his mind: he won’t wear the white shirt again unless it’s to pack it in his suitcase.
After six seasons and 267 appearances for Los Blancos, the 24-year-old is feeling left out of the future.
The arrival of Jude Bellingham took much of the spotlight, and with Kylian Mbappe already taking the center stage, Rodrygo seems to think there’s no room left for him.
The situation is tense. Reports (via Marca) suggest Rodrygo’s connection with long-time teammate Vinicius Jr. has cooled.
Not long ago, the pair danced their way through defenses together. Now, it seems they barely talk off the pitch.
Frustrated by his limited role and declining influence, Rodrygo has gone from hopeful to heated. His return of six goals and six assists in La Liga hasn’t helped his case either.
For Real Madrid fans, the timing could not be worse. Refusing to play in the biggest game of the season has left many supporters baffled — and angry.
What's next for Rodrygo?
Rodrygo’s next step? A summer exit seems likely. Premier League giants like Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester United are watching.Bayern Munich might join the queue too, if their budget allows. Even Saudi clubs could come calling.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, are preparing for life under Xabi Alonso. And unless things change fast, it won’t include Rodrygo.
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