Rodrygo picked up his second start of the season for Real Madrid. No less, that second start came in Real Madrid's return to the Champions League against French opposition, Marseille.
Rodrygo has had a rather confusing few months. While the player never outwardly stated he wanted to move away from Real Madrid, there were rumors circulating left, right, and center about his 'inevitable' departure.
That inevitable departure never happened, and Rodrygo reinstated how devoted he was to Real Madrid, and how grateful he was of all the success he's achieved here.
So, why did it take five competitive games for Rodrygo to make his second start this season?
Rodrygo just sent a crystal clear message to Xabi Alonso
Well, the attack is more packed than it was last season. Players like Arda Güler and Franco Mastantuono are fighting for places and although not directly in competition with Rodrygo, only eleven players can make the team at any given team.
Anyway, Rodrygo sent a crystal clear message to Xabi Alonso within only 27 minutes: I can be a threat in this Real Madrid team, so start me more often.
The Brazilian international cut inside from the left and drew a crystal clear foul from Marseille. It took almost no time at all for the UEFA referee to point to the spot, and nobody disputed it.
Even before winning the penalty, which Kylian Mbappé obviously converted with aplomb, Rodrygo was a threat. His direct dribbling ability and close control paid dividends for Real Madrid, as he made an opportunity for himself before the penalty claim.
Rodrygo is playing like a player with a point to prove, which is obviously excellent for Real Madrid fans. They don't want anyone feeling like their career is on the line, but if Rodrygo plays like it is, then this can only benefit Real Madrid.
Nobody knows what the future holds for Rodrygo, not even the player himself. He might leave in January, or he might play out the entire season. Heck, if he plays this season like he has the last few campaigns, then nobody will even mention the word transfer in the same sentence.
But between now and January (at the earliest), Rodrygo might as well stick his head down and play football more like he did in that first half against Marseille. At best, he'll become a must-starter for Xabi Alonso; at worst, he'll get himself on the plane to the USA, Canada, and Mexico for the World Cup.