Rodrygo has established himself as one in every of Actual Madrid’s standout stars lately, enjoying a key function in vital matches through the group’s UEFA Champions League campaigns. However earlier than making his mark on the Bernabéu, he had the chance to affix FC Barcelona. After almost transferring to the Catalan aspect, the Brazilian revealed the function Cristiano Ronaldo performed in convincing him to decide on Madrid as an alternative.
After spectacular performances at Santos, Actual Madrid pursued the Brazilian teen, paying a €45 million payment in 2019 — a call that has paid off each for his market worth and his contributions in essential video games, just like the 2021-22 UCL semifinals in opposition to Manchester Metropolis. Even at a younger age, Rodrygo demonstrated his ardour for Actual Madrid by proudly owning a kid-size shirt that he nonetheless retains to this present day.
In an interview with Diario AS, Rodrygo defined the story behind the shirt and the way his love for Los Blancos started: “My father gave it to me after a visit his group made to Germany. When he returned, he gave it to me, and from that second I recognized with the group, the membership, and its achievements. There have been additionally many Brazilians on the squad, so I began following them.”
The Brazilian ahead then revealed how Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival at Madrid fueled his obsession with the membership. “And particularly when Cristiano arrived. I’d devour each Actual Madrid match simply to look at him. In Brazil I help Santos, however as a toddler I all the time appreciated Madrid. It was my dream for the day I’d play in Europe,” he added.
Rodrygo of Actual Madrid celebrates after scoring in opposition to Manchester Metropolis.
Rodrygo additionally admitted {that a} transfer to Barcelona had been lifelike, however his ardour for Actual Madrid, sparked by Ronaldo and different legends, tipped the stability: “Earlier than signing with Madrid, all the things was already agreed upon and I used to be set to affix Barca. It’s true. However my father instructed me that Madrid had referred to as and that I had to decide on. For me, it was very simple. I knew what I wished and what my dream was. I didn’t hesitate. And right here I’m.”
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Rodrygo by no means had the prospect to play alongside Ronaldo, who left Actual Madrid in 2018 — a 12 months earlier than the Brazilian’s arrival. Nonetheless, at 24 years outdated, he has already claimed 13 trophies with Los Blancos, together with two Champions League titles. With a contract operating till June 2028, he has loads of time to proceed constructing his trophy cupboard in Spain.
What’s subsequent for Rodrygo?
After restricted minutes final season and being sidelined for a number of video games by present coach Xabi Alonso, questions arose concerning the Brazilian’s future at Actual Madrid, particularly amid reported curiosity from Manchester Metropolis. Rodrygo addressed his future, making it clear that he needs to stay a part of the membership’s plans regardless of the fixed switch hypothesis.
Up to now this season, Rodrygo has appeared in 8 of Actual Madrid’s 10 video games, totaling 212 minutes (a mean of 26.5 minutes per sport) and offering 2 assists. At present enjoying a secondary function, the Brazilian has been referred to as up by Carlo Ancelotti for the upcoming Brazil fixtures — a major confidence increase after a difficult season.
