The Brazilian Football Federation has announced the squad list for the two 2026 World Cup qualifiers in South America. And Rodrygo's name did not appear. He is not the only star to be left out as Vinicius is also absent.
However, the media has paid special attention to Rodrygo. This is understandable because Vinicius may need a break, while Rodrygo needs to play.
Faced with the growing interest, coach Carlo Ancelotti cleverly refused to answer directly and only calmly said: "I haven't spoken to Rodrygo. If he wanted to explain, he could call me. He knows how to communicate with me."
That story partly reflects the turbulent few months of the young Brazilian talent. Just a year ago, Rodrygo was still considered an important link of Real Madrid. Although he is not an ideal choice for the right wing, his talent is still undeniable. But in the past half year, Rodrygo's seemingly prolific career has suddenly stagnated.
From being left out of the squad by Ancelotti, then constantly being rumored to be leaving, until now being forced to stay and accept a life as a reserve at Real Madrid, Rodrygo is truly stuck in a vicious cycle. And the most unpredictable thing right now is which future awaits the Brazilian.
This past summer should have brought Rodrygo an ideal opportunity to change his future. Real Madrid have a new coach, and after spending a lot on young talent Franco Mastantuono, the royal team clearly has enough replacements. Therefore, rumors about Rodrygo's possible departure appeared very early and have never subsided.
Arsenal were once mentioned as a potential destination for the Brazilian striker before they chose to sign Ebere Eze. Liverpool have also been added to the list, especially after selling Luis Diaz. Man City also joined when Pep Guardiola wanted to rebuild the squad.
However, Rodrygo remains in Madrid. In the face of countless rumors, the Brazilian player chose to remain silent, while new coach Xabi Alonso repeatedly affirmed that he was in the plan. Rodrygo's social media posts also showed his determination to fight to regain his position. His use at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 further strengthens the belief that there will be no sudden farewell.
Part of the reason may be the price. Los Blancos offered Rodrygo up to €100 million ( £87 million). Not many teams can spend that huge amount of money, nor do they have a real urgent need. Transfer deals always depend on two basic factors: demand and ability to pay. For Rodrygo, both are lacking. And so he was almost stranded at the Bernabeu.
With only 9 months left until the World Cup in the US, Canada and Mexico starts, Rodrygo will enter a key stage of his career, both at club and national team level.
In the context of Alonso still struggling to find a solution for the right wing, the Brazilian player was forced to seize the opportunity to reaffirm his position. The Spaniard has often rotated his squad, but what Rodrygo needs to do right now is step into the group of players who are sure to start.
If the situation does not improve before January, the scenario of leaving will no longer be something that can be ignored. An official transfer deal in the winter is very unlikely to happen. However, Rodrygo may have to consider a risky option: a short-term loan deal.
Ancelotti has clearly stated his views, and the 24-year-old's hope of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup will probably depend a lot in the coming time.
