Rodrygo Opens Up: I’m Staying at Real Madrid—Unless One Moment Changes Everything
7 October 2025
Rodrygo Goes, a Real Madrid star, opened up in an interview with AS, sharing his journey, the influence of coaches Zinedine Zidane and Carlo Ancelotti, and the personal challenges he faced before rebuilding his balance and confidence.
Zidane—A mentor who spoke softly and mattered
He described Zidane as an incredibly down to earth figure who spoke with him often. At 18, everything felt new and overwhelming, but Zidane's steady guidance helped him accept that the coach was also his mentor. The support and frequent conversations were a key part of his early adaptation and growth at the club.
Ancelotti—Maturity, faith and the miracle run
With Carlo Ancelotti arriving, Rodrygo says he matured rapidly. Under Ancelotti, Real Madrid celebrated the 14th Champions League title, a triumph that felt almost unbelievable. He recalls a painful group-stage defeat away to Sheriff that shook confidence, then recalls how a turning point against Paris Saint-Germain at home, aided by Karim Benzema, rekindled their belief.
He also recounts the quarterfinals against Chelsea, where they trailed 3-0 but found a path back thanks to a magical moment guided by Modric and a precise finish that felt like a sign. He recalls how that night reinforced the idea that the impossible can become possible with the right mindset.
Bernabéu magic and the pursuit of more glory
Rodrygo speaks of the energy at the Bernabéu on Champions League nights as something beyond explanation. The belief that nothing is impossible drives the team forward, a feeling he associates with the club’s culture. He also mentions the Copa del Rey victory in 2023 against Osasuna, a night that underscored Madrid’s ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most.
Rapid rise and the roots of a legend
Born in 2001 in Osasco, Brazil, Rodrygo rose through the Santos academy and broke into the first team as a teenager, catching the eye with his speed and skill. Real Madrid secured his signature in 2018 for around 45 million euros, and he quickly shone for Castilla before making a dazzling impact in the first team, including a 91-second debut against Osasuna and a decisive hat-trick against Galatasaray in the Champions League. Since then, he has become a central figure for both Real Madrid and Brazil.
He also addresses questions about leaving Madrid, stating his desire to stay and win more titles as long as the club wants him. While offers exist, his commitment to Madrid remains strong as long as the club continues to support him.
Patience has become his quiet weapon, and his goals arrive with the precision of a trained marksman. When the time comes, Rodrygo will be ready to write the next chapter at Real Madrid.
Punchlines to end on a lighter note: If patience were a goal, Rodrygo would be averaging a hat-trick per season at the Bernabéu. And if humor is a second language, the only thing sharper than his finishing is his timing—sniper level humor included after every assist.
