Brazilian forward Rodrygo Goes didn’t have his best season with Real Madrid. The arrival of Kylian Mbappé at the Bernabéu seems to have taken a toll: he managed just 14 goals and 11 assists across all competitions — far below what was expected of him in that dream trio with Vini Jr. and the French superstar.

A sea of doubts

The end of the campaign didn’t help his case. Rodrygo finished LaLiga injured, missing the last three matches, and during the break before the Club World Cup, speculation about his future at the club took off.

His fitness and performances were heavily criticized by the Spanish press after a trophyless season for Madrid. Many no longer saw him in Xabi Alonso’s starting XI, but the Brazilian stayed silent and chose not to fuel the rumors.

A return that raised more questions

In Madrid’s Club World Cup opener against Al-Hilal, Rodrygo returned to action. He orchestrated the play that led to Gonzalo García’s goal but left mixed feelings: erratic, imprecise, and lacking that spark he’s known for.

To make things worse, he didn’t start in the 3-1 win over Pachuca, and most concerning of all: Xabi Alonso didn’t even send him to warm up at any point during the game.

What’s next for Rodrygo?

Now the decision lies with Xabi Alonso. The coach must figure out how to handle a player who seems to have lost confidence, with his future becoming increasingly uncertain. Because beyond the fact that Los Merengues have plenty of options on the bench, no one wants to see Rodrygo’s name added to the list of talents who faded away at Real Madrid.