Real Madrid star Rodrygo reportedly rebuffed Arsenal, Liverpool and several other clubs to stay at the Santiago Bernabeu last summer. The Brazilian's future was uncertain following Xabi Alonso's arrival as head coach.
Rodrygo endured a frustrating FIFA Club World Cup campaign, making just three appearances. He looked to have a massive fight on his hands to remain a starter in Alonso's team.
The 25-year-old bounced back and refound form under Alonso and Alvaro Arbeloa once the Spanish coach was replaced in January. He registered three goals and six assists in 27 games across competitions until suffering an ACL injury in February.
Rodrygo turned down Europe's top guns
Rodrygo wouldn't have been short of options if he were to have left Madrid last summer. A report from ESPN Brasil (via Madrid Zone) claims that as many as five clubs were interested.
The Brazil internatonal rejected offers from Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain and the Saudi Pro League. He also opted to stay at the Bernabeu despite enquiries made from Arsenal and Liverpool.
Rodrygo has been at Madrid since the summer of 2019 and has won every major trophy on offer. His versatility has been a real asset, able to play across the frontline, including as the focal point of Carlo Ancelotti's attack at times.
He made clear how much he loved playing for Los Merengues ahead of the 2024 Champions League final win over Borussia Dortmund. He said (via BeIN Sports):
"I said I want to be here forever, but I don't have a way of knowing."
Rodrygo's future could be a talking point in the summer especially as he's sidelined with an ACL injury. There have been reports suggesting Madrid will prioritise Endrick over his compatriot once the teenage wonderkid returns from his loan at Lyon.
An uncertain summer
Los Blancos aren't under pressure to sort out Rodrygo's future though as he will still have two years on his contract. They might need to give him some assurances over his playing time though if some of Europe's biggest clubs again show interest.
Rodrygo is a real team player and has enjoyed many memorable moments with the Spanish capital club. It would be a shame to sell the winger who is still relatively young and has impressed for the majority of the season.
If a big-money offer comes in for the Brazilian that is over the 90 million euros mark then that could test the La Liga giants. But selling him for anything less could prove to be a mistake.