Rodrygo Makes Unwanted History, Matching Real Madrid's 123-Year-Old Dubious Record

Rodrygo is experiencing the most prolonged scoring drought of any Real Madrid striker throughout the club's 123-year existence.

The Brazilian attacker entered the match as a substitute during the last 18 minutes of Sunday's disappointing 1–1 stalemate against Girona but couldn't provide the decisive moment. This scoreless appearance extended Rodrygo's streak to 30 straight club matches without scoring for Real Madrid, matching the unwelcome record previously held by Mariano Díaz from 2020 to 2022.

Díaz was primarily used as a substitute throughout that barren period, accumulating only 986 minutes (averaging under 33 minutes per game). Rodrygo's quest for a club goal has now reached 1,339 minutes, initially documented by Spanish data analyst MisterChip and The Athletic.

The sole striker in Madrid's chronicles who experienced a longer wait for the satisfaction of scoring was Rafa Marañón.

Longest Goal Droughts for Forwards in Real Madrid History

The former Spain international emerged from Madrid's academy and served four seasons with the senior squad from 1970 to 1974. Marañón celebrated his debut by scoring against Scottish club Hibernian just five minutes after entering as a second-half replacement. The 22-year-old would endure a 19-month wait before netting again, though his most extensive drought lasted 29 matches spanning 1972 to 1974.

While Rodrygo has surpassed Marañón's game total, the struggling Spaniard endured 1,416 minutes before ending his drought in the Madrid derby against Atlético. Rodrygo needs just 78 more minutes to claim this dubious distinction entirely.

Marañón's story also provides encouragement for Rodrygo. The Navarre native eventually departed Madrid for Espanyol, where he concluded his career as that club's record goalscorer. Whether Rodrygo will seek opportunities elsewhere remains uncertain.

What Next for Rodrygo?

Rodrygo's scoreless streak dates back to last March, when he netted the opening goal in the second leg of an intensely contested Champions League round-of-16 tie against Atlético Madrid. The Brazil international has managed just one La Liga goal in 2025—scored in January.

This drought might have ended much earlier had Rodrygo departed Madrid during the summer transfer window. Despite considerable speculation—amplified by Xabi Alonso's tendency to bench the winger throughout much of the Club World Cup—the lifelong club supporter remained committed to staying and competing for his position.

Alonso has shown greater willingness to deploy Rodrygo on his preferred left flank—creating complications by relegating Vinicius Junior to the bench—but hasn't been rewarded with goals. Honestly, Madrid's No. 11 hasn't been particularly threatening.

An overwhelming 78 players have attempted more shots in La Liga than Rodrygo this season, while 137 exceed his modest expected goals total of 0.7.

Winter transfer speculation has remained largely subdued. As Rodrygo stated last month: "As long as Madrid wants me, I'll be here." Should this scoring drought persist, their desire for his services may diminish.

Rodrygo's Goal Drought

Stats via FBref. Correct as of Dec. 1, 2025.