Real Madrid have done a wonderful job of identifying and signing the top young talents around the world in recent years and turning them into first-team stars at the Santiago Bernabeu itself. One could argue that this strategy has worked better than going out and spending big transfer fees on players. One of the biggest success stories has been Rodrygo.
Rodrygo arrived at Real Madrid as a teenager in 2019 from Santos. Slowly but surely, he has been successful in establishing himself as a first-team regular at the club though, and has been playing consistent football in Carlo Ancelotti’s side this season.
Vinicius Jr had his breakout season last time around and established himself as one of the best in the world. This campaign could work as the same for Rodrygo.
While playing for Real Madrid, Rodrgyo does have a former Barcelona player as his idol. It is none other than Neymar Jr. But then, considering his Santos roots, perhaps it should come as no surprise. As reported by GOAL, he told La Gazzetta dello Sport:
"“Neymar gave me so much confidence before the match: he wanted to show me his support. He’s a teacher and he’s my idol, it’s an honor for me to play with him.”"
Real Madrid youngster names Neymar as his idol
It is safe to say that Neymar would be an idol to a number of the current crop of Brazilian players, who are coming through.
Neymar was seen as the next big thing of Brazilian football while coming through the youth ranks himself and unlike many of the names of the past, he was actually able to deliver on the promise and establish himself as one of the best in the game.
Yes, constant injuries did take a toll on his career and he was never quite able to reach his full potential. He does have the chance to do something special with the Brazilian national team this time around though and win the World Cup. They are through to the quarter-finals, where they will take on Croatia.