Recently, Real Madrid and Brazil forward Rodrygo delivered a stellar performance by scoring the only goal in Brazil’s 1-0 victory over Ecuador.
Despite this impressive feat, his future at the Bernabeu continues to be a topic of speculation.
Controversial Ballon d’Or Omission
The 23-year-old’s standout performance comes after he was surprisingly left off the 30-man Ballon d’Or shortlist.
This decision was particularly shocking given his pivotal role in helping Los Blancos secure both LaLiga and the Champions League last season.
While his teammates—Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, Toni Kroos (who has since retired), Antonio Rudiger, and Dani Carvajal—were all nominated, Rodrygo was notably absent.
The forward admitted he was ‘upset’ by the exclusion.
Pressure from New Arrivals
Adding to the speculation about Rodrygo’s future is the recent arrival of Kylian Mbappe, who also made the Ballon d’Or shortlist.
This development has fueled rumors that Rodrygo’s position in the Madrid squad might be under threat.
However, Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti sought to ease these concerns last month, assuring reporters that the club values Rodrygo’s abilities.
So far, Ancelotti has started Rodrygo in four of Madrid’s five games this season.
Rodrygo’s Continued Push
Rodrygo continued to prove his worth in Brazil’s World Cup qualifier on Saturday, scoring the decisive goal in a narrow win over Ecuador.
Post-match, he echoed his club manager’s sentiments, expressing confidence in his abilities and optimism for the future.
‘I’ve scored a few goals [with Brazil] and I want many more.
I know my quality and how far I can go,’ he stated.
‘I’m still starting out, and I hope that with the help of my teammates, I can score many more.’
Response to Ballon d’Or Snub
Despite a strong performance last season, including 10 goals in LaLiga and five in the Champions League, Rodrygo’s absence from the Ballon d’Or shortlist was a surprise.
He reacted by posting photos of himself lifting trophies with Madrid, accompanied by a laughing emoji.
Rodrygo admitted the snub was disappointing and felt he deserved a place among the nominees.
‘I was upset; I think I deserved it,’ he told ESPN.
‘I don’t want to belittle the players who are there, but I think I had a place in the 30.
It was a surprise… But there’s not much I can do.’
Looking Ahead for Madrid
Real Madrid’s season has had a sluggish start, with two wins and two draws from their first four matches, leaving them four points behind the early leaders, Barcelona.
Their next challenge is against Real Sociedad on Saturday night.
