Rodrygo was left on the bench during Real Madrid's 3-1 win over Pachuca, which has raised increasing concerns about his future at Real Madrid as Arsenal monitor his situation.
Rodrygo Goes’ name has rarely been far from the headlines this summer — and with good reason. The 24-year-old Brazilian forward is at the center of mounting speculation about his future at Real Madrid, just as Premier League giants Arsenal circle with growing interest.
Although Rodrygo started and assisted in Real Madrid’s 1-1 Club World Cup opener against Al Hilal, his exclusion from subsequent matches and recent tension with the club have left his future hanging in the balance.
Arsenal are reportedly prepared to bid around £70 million for the forward, seeing him as a key piece in their attacking puzzle. But with Madrid’s stance still unclear, the situation remains unresolved.
PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports
![Harambee Stars Captain Michael Olunga Close to Joining New Club After Ditching Al Duhail [REPORT]](https://sportal365images.com/process/smp-images-production/ringier.africa/02052025/28db55a6-23d2-4cde-8b97-ccf540454682.jpg?operations=fit(180:))
13:45 - 22.06.2025
Harambee Stars Captain Michael Olunga Close to Joining New Club After Ditching Al Duhail [REPORT]
Harambee Stars forward Michael Olunga is close to joining a new club after exiting Al Duhail in May.
As originally reported by The Athletic, here are the key reasons why Rodrygo’s future at the Bernabéu is uncertain:
Fallout After Copa del Rey Final
Following Real Madrid’s 3-2 loss to Barcelona in April's Copa del Rey final, reports emerged that Rodrygo had told coaches he didn’t feel mentally or physically prepared to play. This marked the start of his unexplained absence, raising internal concerns and external speculation.
Questions Over Motivation
)
Multiple sources close to the club have raised concerns about Rodrygo’s training attitude. Though his camp strongly denies any lack of commitment, the issue was serious enough to keep him out of Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil squad for June’s World Cup qualifiers — with club and player reportedly in agreement.
)
17:23 - 23.06.2025
Mohammed Bajaber: Bittersweet Moment for Harambee Stars Attacker as He Wins League While Ex-Club is Relegated
Mohammed Bajaber must be feeling mixed emotions after winning the FKF Premier League title while watching the club that nurtured him get relegated.
Lack of Transparency Around Absences
Rodrygo missed several key games following the final, but Real Madrid did not release any official medical reports — an unusual move for a club typically transparent with injuries. Conflicting explanations, ranging from fever to leg discomfort, have only deepened the mystery.
Friction Between Agent and Club
His father and agent, Eric Goes, has reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with how the club is handling Rodrygo’s situation. Those complaints, sources say, have not been well received at various levels inside Madrid, potentially complicating any future negotiations.
Tactical Mismatch at Madrid
)
Rodrygo has often been used on the right wing — a position he’s capable of playing, but not his preferred side. Arsenal, on the other hand, are believed to be offering him a central role on the left flank with more creative freedom, a prospect that appeals to the player.
)
08:00 - 23.06.2025
Gor Mahia Disclose Gate Collection Revenue from Match Against Kenya Police
K'Ogalo reveal gate revenue from their final match of the season, marked by a dramatic game and unique celebrations.
Unclear Standing Under Xabi Alonso
)
New head coach Xabi Alonso has publicly praised Rodrygo, calling him “spectacular” and saying “we will need him.” But despite starting the Club World Cup opener, Rodrygo was left out of the next game entirely, with no explanation from Alonso post-match — raising fresh doubts about his status.
Premier League Interest Heating Up
Arsenal are seriously monitoring the situation, confident they can provide Rodrygo with both tactical comfort and long-term development. While his agent has turned down other approaches for now, sources suggest Arsenal are ready to move quickly if Madrid open the door to negotiations.
What Comes Next
Rodrygo recently returned to training in improved spirits, even sharing a smiling photo on Instagram with the caption "FELIZ". Sources at Madrid say his attitude has shifted positively under Alonso. Still, with pre-season underway and no guarantees of a key role, the coming weeks could prove decisive.
Whether Rodrygo stays to fight for his place or seeks a fresh start elsewhere — possibly in North London — will be one of the key stories of Real Madrid’s summer.