Vinícius Júnior has experienced a season full of contrasts at Real Madrid. By the end of 2024, many saw him as a clear candidate for the Ballon d'Or. However, his performance has unexpectedly plummeted in recent months.
Despite his drop in form, Vinícius remains untouchable for Carlo Ancelotti. The Italian coach doesn't usually change his plans easily, as he already showed during the era of the famous BBC. Something similar is happening now, although the combinations don't always yield the desired results.
Vinícius and Mbappé Struggle to Understand Each Other
Since Mbappé arrived at Real Madrid, it was expected that his connection with Vinícius would be immediate. However, on the field, both show they have styles too different to fully complement each other. Despite this, Ancelotti continues to bet on them without hesitation.
In this context, Vinícius Júnior's most reliable partner has been, so far, another Brazilian talent. A partner who, despite not being at his best, had always had the support of the coaching staff. This season, however, his performance has been so low that everything points to a change of scenery.
Rodrygo, Targeted by Real Madrid
Rodrygo is going through one of the worst moments since his arrival in Madrid. In his last 20 matches, he has only managed to score one goal, an alarming figure for a forward of his level. The fans are starting to grow impatient and no longer hide their frustration at Santiago Bernabéu.
Florentino Pérez, who always defended Rodrygo, is now seriously considering his sale. Interest in the Brazilian has not been long in coming, especially from the Premier League. Manchester City and Chelsea have already inquired about his situation, willing to put offers of more than 100M on the table.
Manchester City and Chelsea, Eyeing Rodrygo
Both Pep Guardiola and Chelsea's new project consider Rodrygo a market opportunity. Despite his bad streak, his technical skills are still highly valued in England. For Real Madrid, a sale of this caliber could be a perfect opportunity to balance the books and strengthen other areas.
Meanwhile, Rodrygo views the possibility of a change of scenery favorably. He believes that in another environment he could rediscover his best version, away from the pressure of the Bernabéu. Additionally, both City and Chelsea offer him ambitious sports projects and important roles in their systems.
Rodrygo, Increasingly Distant from Real Madrid
Although nothing is officially closed yet, everything points to Rodrygo packing his bags this summer. Within Real Madrid, they already assume that his departure would be a beneficial option for all parties. Vinícius Júnior, his great friend, would be left without his partner in adventures on and off the field.
With the arrival of new talents and the growth of Endrick, the competition in the white attack will be fierce. Rodrygo doesn't want to risk spending more time on the bench in a key season for his career. His farewell, although painful for many, seems a matter of time.