Lately, Rodrygo’s future has once again become a talking point, with BD Cricket reporting that Manchester City has shown keen interest in the Brazilian forward — especially following their decision to send Julián Álvarez on loan to Atlético Madrid. With City eager to strengthen their attack, Rodrygo has emerged as a top target. However, the Real Madrid star still has four years left on his contract, which includes a staggering £840 million release clause. While Madrid’s stance remains unclear, Rodrygo has expressed on multiple occasions his desire to remain under Carlo Ancelotti and fight for a consistent starting role.
Rodrygo and fellow Brazilian Vinícius Júnior arrived at the Bernabéu at different times, but their development paths have diverged. Vinícius has blossomed into a €180 million-rated global superstar, joining the ranks of Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, and Jude Bellingham as a Ballon d’Or frontrunner. Rodrygo, while valued at €110 million, hasn’t enjoyed the same spotlight, leading to recurring speculation about a potential exit. Signed from Santos for €45 million in 2019, Rodrygo — though stylistically different from Neymar — shares the same footballing roots, and has steadily grown year after year in Madrid’s system.
His minutes and influence have increased each season. During Real’s miraculous Champions League campaigns, Rodrygo delivered clutch performances. In the semifinals against Manchester City two seasons ago, after Madrid lost the first leg, Rodrygo scored twice in the return leg to spark an unforgettable comeback. That season, he made 57 appearances, started 41 games, and posted 19 goals with 10 assists. Last season, he once again played a pivotal role in the knockout rounds — scoring in both legs against City before Madrid advanced on penalties. BD Cricket points out that Pep Guardiola’s interest likely stems from Rodrygo’s consistent impact in high-stakes matches.
Yet despite Premier League interest, Rodrygo — a lifelong Real Madrid fan — has no intention of leaving for England. With Madrid rebuilding post-Cristiano Ronaldo and now adding both Mbappé and rising star Endrick to the roster, Rodrygo sees no reason to walk away from a club where he’s grown into a key figure. As BD Cricket sees it, he should not fear Mbappé’s arrival. Ancelotti is expected to revert to a 4-3-3 formation this season, finally assembling a new “Galáctico” front three with Mbappé, Rodrygo, and Vinícius — reminiscent of the legendary BBC trio dismantled six years ago.
Previously, Rodrygo’s role often felt undefined, and he was regularly shifted out of position. But after five seasons of steady growth and critical contributions, this summer presents a golden opportunity for him to truly level up. If Madrid chooses to keep him — and all signs suggest they will — it’s high time he’s given a consistent role in his preferred zone. Regardless of Mbappé’s star power or Endrick’s potential, BD Cricket firmly believes Rodrygo has earned his spot in Real Madrid’s new attacking trident.