Rodrygo Goes is facing an uncertain future at Real Madrid, as questions surrounding his form, role, and relationship with the club continue to intensify. Despite flashes of brilliance, including an assist in the Club World Cup opener against Al Hilal, his recent exclusion from key matches and a wave of off-field issues have stirred speculation, particularly as Arsenal reportedly prepare a £70 million offer.
One major turning point came after Madrid’s 3-2 loss to Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final. Rodrygo allegedly told the coaching staff he did not feel mentally or physically ready to feature in the match. His withdrawal sparked internal concern and marked the beginning of a stretch of unexplained absences.
Further complicating matters are questions about his motivation. While those close to Rodrygo firmly deny any lack of commitment, multiple sources have expressed concern about his attitude in training. This reportedly contributed to his exclusion from Brazil’s national team squad for the June World Cup qualifiers, despite being fit.
Adding to the ambiguity is the club’s uncharacteristic silence regarding his absences. Rodrygo missed several matches, yet Madrid issued no official medical updates. Conflicting reports citing minor ailments, like fever or discomfort, only deepened the confusion and raised eyebrows both inside and outside the club.
Behind the scenes, tensions have reportedly grown between Real Madrid and Rodrygo’s father and agent, Eric Goes. He is said to have criticized the way the club has managed his son’s situation, a move that hasn’t gone down well with Madrid’s leadership. Such friction could complicate any renewal talks or influence a decision to sell.
From a tactical standpoint, Rodrygo has often been deployed on the right wing — a role he can fulfill but doesn’t prefer. Arsenal, by contrast, are reportedly ready to offer him a position on the left with more creative freedom, which is believed to be more appealing to the player.
The arrival of new manager Xabi Alonso has done little to clarify Rodrygo’s role. While Alonso has publicly praised the winger, calling him “spectacular,” Rodrygo was curiously benched in the second Club World Cup match. No explanation followed, fueling uncertainty over how central he is to the new project.
With Arsenal intensifying their interest, the next few weeks could prove crucial. Rodrygo has returned to training with renewed energy and optimism, but whether that leads to a more stable place in the squad or signals a last push before an exit remains to be seen. His situation is one of the summer’s most compelling transfer sagas.
