Carlo Ancelotti Takes Aim at Rodrygo: Here’s What He Criticizes Him For

The atmosphere surrounding Real Madrid appears to be undergoing a period of internal scrutiny, as evidenced by recent reports highlighting manager Carlo Ancelotti’s apparent dissatisfaction with one of his key players, Brazilian forward Rodrygo Goes. This development comes amidst a backdrop of increasing uncertainty regarding the player’s future at the Santiago Bernabéu, further fueled by his recent absences from the squad.

Rodrygo’s recent unavailability for Real Madrid’s upcoming La Liga fixture against RCD Mallorca marks his ninth absence for the club. The latest setback stems from an apparent limp he sustained during Tuesday’s training session. This new episode adds to a growing list of missed games for the Brazilian star, a situation that has coincided with heightened speculation surrounding his long-term prospects with the Spanish giants.

Interestingly, Rodrygo had previously been sidelined for the match against Celta Vigo due to illness, an absence that initially garnered little attention. However, in the lead-up to the highly anticipated El Clásico clash against Barcelona, Carlo Ancelotti had confidently asserted that Rodrygo was once again fit and available for selection. Despite this assurance and the subsequent injury to Vinicius Junior during the game, Rodrygo remained an unused substitute, without even participating in the pre-match warm-up. Ancelotti later attributed this to a recurrence of his illness.

Adding another layer of complexity to the situation, certain Madrid-based media outlets have suggested that Rodrygo himself requested not to be included in the lineup for the El Clásico encounter. This version of events, however, was vehemently denied by the experienced Italian manager. “He still had a fever and wasn’t at his best,” Ancelotti clarified. “Today, he felt discomfort in his leg. I don’t know which one. He hasn’t recovered well. There has been a lot of speculation, but everyone loves Rodrygo, me first and foremost.”

Addressing the morale of the Brazilian winger amidst this period of physical setbacks and uncertainty, Ancelotti acknowledged the challenging circumstances. “When a player isn’t physically well, it also affects them emotionally,” he stated. “He wants to help the team, to prove his worth. That’s natural.” This recognition of the emotional toll that injuries and lack of playing time can take on a player suggests a degree of empathy from the manager, even as reports of his criticisms surface.

The confluence of Rodrygo’s repeated absences and the apparent lack of clarity surrounding the reasons for them has inevitably cast a shadow over his future at Real Madrid. According to information emanating from the Spanish capital, there are suggestions that Rodrygo may not feature prominently in Xabi Alonso’s plans for the upcoming season, should the former Real Madrid midfielder take over the managerial reins. Consequently, a potential departure as early as this summer is reportedly being considered by both the club and the player. A definitive decision on his future could be made in the very near future, with Real Madrid reportedly keen to resolve the situation swiftly.

The fact that Ancelotti has publicly addressed Rodrygo’s physical condition and, by extension, his availability, indicates the seriousness of the situation. While his comments have included expressions of support for the player, the underlying narrative of repeated absences and reported doubts about his future suggest a growing disconnect. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Rodrygo can regain full fitness and convince both Ancelotti and the potential future management that he remains an integral part of Real Madrid’s plans.

The uncertainty surrounding Rodrygo’s future also highlights the intense competition for places within the Real Madrid squad. With a wealth of attacking talent at his disposal, Ancelotti and any future manager will need to make difficult decisions regarding team selection and the long-term composition of the squad. Rodrygo, despite his undeniable talent and moments of brilliance, will need to consistently demonstrate his fitness and form to secure his place in a team with such high aspirations.

Ultimately, the current situation involving Carlo Ancelotti’s apparent criticisms and Rodrygo’s repeated absences paints a picture of internal challenges within the Real Madrid camp. As the season progresses and the future managerial landscape becomes clearer, Rodrygo’s ability to overcome his physical setbacks and demonstrate his value to the team will be paramount in determining his future at one of the world’s most demanding football clubs. The unfolding developments surrounding his situation will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike.