Real Madrid: Rodrygo rompe el silencio sobre su traspaso abortado al Barça

The story of Rodrygo Goes’ career could have taken an entirely different path — one that would have rewritten Spanish football history. When the Brazilian winger officially signed for Real Madrid in the summer of 2019 for €45 million, very few fans knew how close he had been to joining their eternal rivals, FC Barcelona. Years later, the 24-year-old has finally broken his silence about what truly happened in those tense days before his move to the Santiago Bernabéu.

Currently with the Brazilian national team on international duty in Seoul, Rodrygo sat down with Diario AS for an exclusive interview that has reignited debate across Spain. The forward, known for his humility and calm demeanor, revealed that his destiny was almost painted in Blaugrana colors before taking a shocking turn that would change his life forever.

“Before signing for Real Madrid, everything was already agreed with Barcelona — it’s true,” Rodrygo admitted candidly. “I had even signed the preliminary documents. But then my father told me that Real Madrid had called and wanted to speak with us. That moment changed everything. I had to make a decision — and for me, it was clear. I knew what I wanted, I knew my dream, and I didn’t hesitate for even a second.”

His words have stunned fans across Spain, especially given how fiercely contested transfers between Real Madrid and Barcelona are. In recent decades, very few players have had the chance to choose between the two Spanish giants, and even fewer have dared to speak publicly about it. For Rodrygo, however, the choice was not about money or fame — it was about following his heart.

“Playing for Real Madrid was always my dream,” he continued. “From the time I was a kid in Brazil watching Cristiano Ronaldo and Benzema, I imagined myself in that white shirt. When Madrid came in, it felt like destiny. Barcelona were professional and respectful, but Real Madrid was special. It was a call I couldn’t ignore.”

Back in 2018, when Rodrygo was lighting up the Brazilian league with Santos, both clubs were closely monitoring his progress. Barcelona were the first to act, sending scouts and arranging meetings with his representatives. According to reports, the deal with the Catalan club had been virtually completed. However, Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez personally intervened, convincing the young prodigy and his family that the Bernabéu was the right place for him to fulfill his dreams.

Rodrygo’s father, Eric Goes, also played a decisive role. “He told me that choosing Real Madrid was not just a transfer — it was an opportunity to make history,” Rodrygo recalled. “He said, ‘You can be part of something bigger here. It’s not about what’s easy now, but about what will matter years from today.’ I listened to him — and now, I see that he was right.”

Since joining Madrid, Rodrygo has enjoyed both triumph and struggle. His goals in the Champions League, especially during Madrid’s historic comebacks against Chelsea and Manchester City, have earned him a place in club folklore. Yet, the winger has also faced competition from world-class teammates and speculation about his long-term role under Carlo Ancelotti.

“I know competition is part of life at Real Madrid,” Rodrygo said with a smile. “You have to fight every day, prove yourself every week. Sometimes people doubt me, sometimes they praise me — but I just focus on improving. Wearing this badge means responsibility and honor. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

Interestingly, rumors resurfaced this past summer suggesting that Barcelona were again monitoring Rodrygo’s situation, especially amid uncertainty surrounding his playing time. But the Brazilian quickly shut down any idea of switching sides. “There are things in football that you just don’t do,” he said firmly. “I respect Barcelona, but my loyalty is to Real Madrid. This club believed in me when it mattered most.”

His words have been celebrated by Madrid fans, who see Rodrygo as one of the new generation’s pillars alongside Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham. Despite injuries and rotation, his commitment to the club has never wavered. “I owe everything to Madrid — the club, my teammates, the fans. They’ve supported me since day one,” he added.

As he continues his journey with Brazil and Real Madrid, Rodrygo’s story stands as a reminder of how a single decision can define an entire career. What could have been a life in the blue and red of Barcelona became a destiny written in white — one that has already produced unforgettable moments and promises many more to come.

And so, when Rodrygo says today, “I knew exactly what I wanted, and I chose my dream,” it carries more than just nostalgia. It is a statement of purpose — a testament to loyalty, ambition, and the power of believing in where you truly belong.