Rodrygo Goes has become the focal point of growing frustration at Real Madrid. After starting 2025 in dazzling form—scoring seven goals and providing two assists in just eight matches—the Brazilian has experienced a dramatic and prolonged decline. Despite unwavering trust from the coaching staff, who have consistently kept him in the starting eleven, Rodrygo’s visible sadness and lack of spark suggest his struggles go beyond the pitch.

His downward spiral culminated in the Copa del Rey final, where his substitution at halftime—replaced by Mbappé—sparked an immediate change in Madrid’s energy and attitude. Though the formation remained unchanged, the contrast in intensity was stark. Rodrygo, however, looked disinterested, disconnected, and unable to impact the match. He hasn’t scored in his last 24 appearances—22 with Madrid and two with Brazil—a drought that has tested the fans' patience.

The departure of Toni Kroos has also unbalanced Madrid’s midfield, making it clear that the current system needs more stability. Rodrygo became the sacrificial piece in this tactical equation, but instead of adapting, the attack leaned on maintaining the "BMVR" identity (Bellingham, Mbappé, Vinícius, Rodrygo)—a formula that masked deeper issues until they surfaced again in painful fashion.

His performance in the final may have sealed his fate. Substituted at the break without completing a single dribble or shot, losing five duels, and barely touching the ball in key phases, Rodrygo seemed completely out of rhythm. With Madrid overwhelmed by Barça's intensity, he looked lost—staying high instead of dropping deep, and failing to challenge Gerard Martín, who thrived in his first Clásico.

Rodrygo’s future now hangs in the balance. His own words ahead of Mbappé’s signing hinted at uncertainty: "Yes, well... Anything can happen. I have a contract here, but… the years I've already been here have been a pleasure for me." Although he later tried to clarify his stance, his place at Real Madrid is more vulnerable than ever.

This summer could become a defining moment in the 24-year-old’s career. The question remains: will Rodrygo fight to reclaim his place in the Bernabéu spotlight, or is it time for a fresh start elsewhere?

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