Rodrygo Breaks Silence on Relentless Real Madrid Exit Rumors: "It Happens Every Week"

Throughout the summer, Rodrygo made light of the constant speculation connecting him to various clubs each week, maintaining that he remains content at Real Madrid.

Discussions regarding potential interest in the Brazilian star were widespread during the transfer period. Following his reduced role in Madrid's first team during the closing stages of the 2024–25 season, extensive rumors connected Rodrygo with numerous English Premier League teams.

Both Arsenal and Liverpool were mentioned as possibilities, while Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur appeared as genuine suitors. Xabi Alonso's hesitation to utilize Rodrygo during the Club World Cup further fueled transfer speculation, though the 24-year-old maintains he never gave much credence to the rumors.

"It's something I'm accustomed to; annually they claim I'm departing," he remarked to TNT Sports after Tuesday's Champions League match against Marseille. "Throughout the transfer period, weekly I was associated with different clubs.

"I actually made jokes with my family and friends, saying 'See, today I'm linked with this club, tomorrow with another.' Weekly I was connected to different teams, but as I mentioned, I remained mentally composed and it didn't impact me whatsoever.

"I kept enjoying my break, maintaining my fitness because I understood this was where I would remain. Ultimately, I'm still at home, in the location I've always aspired to be. I'll keep giving everything each day I put on this jersey."

Rodrygo's determination to remain seems to have been rewarded. Under Carlo Ancelotti's management, the adaptable attacker was frequently moved to the right wing position while Vinícius Júnior operated freely on his preferred left side. Madrid's current manager has made the surprising decision to bench Viní Jr. in favor of Rodrygo on several occasions this season—including their opening Champions League home fixture this week.

"I work hard and commit myself daily, awaiting my chances," Rodrygo stated after earning a penalty that led to Kylian Mbappé's opening goal in a 2–1 victory. "He's [Alonso] been making numerous changes, utilizing different tactics in each match. He began the season positioning me more on the left side, but everyone understands I can operate centrally and on the right, as I've consistently done."