Rodrygo Goes has admitted he’s not enjoyed playing the number nine role for Real Madrid since Karim Benzema’s summer departure.
The Brazilian youngster joined Madrid for £38.5m (€45m) in 2019 and is now an integral member of Carlo Ancelotti’s side. Rodrygo has won two La Liga titles, one FIFA Club World Cup and one UEFA Champions League with Los Blancos, impressing as the starting right winger
Following the shock departure of Benzema – the legendary striker joined Saudi Pro League outfit Al Ittihad – and the signing of attacking midfielder Jude Bellingham, a tactical switch from Ancelotti has seen Rodrygo and fellow wide player Vinicius Junior become the club’s de facto starting strikers.
While Vinicius has impressed in his new role, bagging four goal contributions in six starts, Rodrygo has somewhat struggled to adapt to life as a number nine.
The 22-year-old has managed just one goal all season, coming way back in mid-August against Athletic Club. Since that game, Rodrygo has gone ten games without getting on the scoresheet.
Speaking while on international duty, Rodrygo discussed his recent barren run of form and admitted that he doesn’t like his new role at the club: “I have always made clear that I have the ability to play on the wing, I don’t like playing as a number nine, but in Madrid I have to.
“For Brazil, I have more freedom to move”, he added.
Despite Rodrygo’s poor form in front of goal, Madrid have impressed in the early months of the 2023/24 season thanks to the stunning goal return of Jude Bellingham. The England star has bagged a record-equalling 10 goals in his first 10 games at the club, firing Madrid to the top of La Liga.
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