Real Madrid’s attacking options are being called into question. The performances of Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo are divisive. With inconsistency and expectations running high, the management could be contemplating drastic changes.

Real Madrid are going through a complex period in which their attacking line is under scrutiny from all sides. At the heart of this debate is Vinicius Jr, the best player in Carlo Ancelotti’s squad. He came close to winning the 2024 Ballon d’Or and has started this season in the best possible way with some fine performances, including two hat-tricks against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League and Osasuna in La Liga. But the same cannot be said of his compatriot Rodrygo Goes.

Indeed, the Santos-trained Auriverde striker is no longer immune to criticism. Although he has shown promise in the past, he has struggled to make an impact this season. According to madrid-barcelona, this situation is fuelling internal discussions and prompting Real Madrid to consider adjustments to their attacking strategy.

Rodrygo, the weak link in Real Madrid’s attack?

For several weeks now, Rodrygo has been under the spotlight for his lacklustre performances, even though he has not been spared from injury. Despite some dangerous moves, his overall impact remains limited. At just 24 years of age, he seems to be losing the confidence of his coach, Carlo Ancelotti, who has no hesitation in favouring other options such as Brahim Díaz.

So far this season, Rodrygo has scored just 3 goals in 16 games for Real Madrid. These are low figures for a player who is supposed to be at the same level as Vinicius Jr (12 goals in 17 games this season). Kylian Mbappé, who has faced criticism since the start of the season, has already scored 11 goals in 20 games despite having just joined the Casa Blanca.

This drop in form is cause for concern. Rodrygo, once seen as a player of the future, is struggling to make a decisive step forward. His ability to be a regular starter at Real Madrid is now in doubt, and his future could be decided in the coming months if the situation does not improve.

Rodrygo, the shadow of Vinicius Jr soon to be sold?

The comparison with Vinicius Jr is inevitable. While Rodrygo struggles to establish himself in attack, Vinícius remains a formidable weapon, capable of changing the course of a match thanks to his blistering pace and incredible ability to unhinge opposing defences. Although criticised at times, Vinicius Jr excels when he plays in his preferred position. He generates more danger and chances for Real Madrid and has become a real obsession for opposing defenders. Rodrygo, despite his potential, has yet to demonstrate this consistency or aura on the pitch.
El delantero del Real Madrid Vinícius Junior celebra con Rodrygo Goes en una foto de archivo. EFE/Rodrigo Jiménez
However, Rodrygo’s future at Real Madrid remains in doubt. Despite his qualities, his form has dipped slightly in recent games. Real Madrid are demanding at the highest level and cannot be satisfied with intermittent performances. Consistency is essential, and if Rodrygo fails to live up to expectations, the club could consider parting with him, especially if a lucrative offer were to come in, according to madrid-barcelona. Manchester City are reportedly still interested, and Florentino Perez will accept no less than 100 million for the sale of Rodrygo Goes at the end of the season. Carlo Ancelotti has insisted that he does not want to leave in January, just to finish the season with a chance to win La Liga, the Champions League, the Copa del Rey and the Club World Cup.