Spoiler alert: Rodrygo is an exceptional player.
Ever since joining Real Madrid, he's faced hurdle after hurdle. Yet he remains, and after overcoming each hurdle, he's only become a stronger player.
The Brazil international has faced injury setbacks, managerial changes, and world-class players being signed in his position. It seems like every summer, fans are asking the same question: which club will Rodrygo choose next?
The emphatic answer for each window has been Real Madrid. Despite what media speculation would have you believe, Rodrygo clearly values his position at Real Madrid and would choose them over most (if not all) clubs in the world.
Now, Rodrygo has made his future crystal clear.
Rodrygo loves Real Madrid, simple as that
According to Fabrizio Romano, Rodrygo has pledged his allegiance to Real Madrid for as long as the club wants him. He isn't looking for a move away anytime soon, and has made an undying promise to Real Madrid fans.
In his own words, Rodrygo said: "As long as Real Madrid want, I stay at the club. I love being at Real Madrid."
Crystal clear. No further words needed.
Without a shadow of a doubt, you will read about speculation on his future in the upcoming transfer windows. This is just part and parcel of being Rodrygo, for some reason. However, when reading those headlines in the press, we urge you to remember what Rodrygo himself has said.
And look, Rodrygo has never played like a player who wants to leave. Sure, his chances in the first team have never been a nailed-on guarantee, but every time he's given a chance, he takes it with both hands.
In the Champions League against Kairat, Rodrygo was one of Real Madrid's most influential players. This was despite coming off the bench, where some would even argue he is the strongest against tired legs.
This season so far, Rodrygo has made a mere two starts across all competitions. His other six appearances have come from the bench.
It would be easy for a player with a big ego to kick up a fuss about this, putting Real Madrid in a corner. But Rodyrgo hasn't done that, he understands the situation and wants to fight for his spot.
And fight for his spot is exactly what he will do. The recent performance against Villarreal gave VinÃcius Jr some much-needed credit, but it won't be long before Rodrygo challenges this with his own.