Real Madrid superstar takes major step in injury recovery six months after ACL tear | OneFootball

Real Madrid forward Rodrygo has taken a major step in his recovery from a serious knee injury after returning to the pitch at Valdebebas for the first time in six months.

The Brazilian was back outside at the club’s training complex on Tuesday, beginning a gentle running programme under the supervision of members of Real Madrid’s rehabilitation team.

Rodrygo shared his excitement on social media alongside photographs and a video of the session, writing, “It feels so good to be running on the pitch again! Let’s keep going!”

Rodrygo begins running at Valdebebas

Rodrygo suffered the injury on March 3 during Real Madrid’s La Liga meeting with Getafe at the Santiago Bernabéu.

The forward had only recently entered the game as a substitute when he sustained damage to the anterior cruciate ligament and outer meniscus in his right knee. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rodrygo Goes 👐🏾⚡️🇧🇷 (@rodrygogoes)

Despite experiencing significant pain, he continued playing until the final whistle.

The extent of the injury became clear after the match, with Rodrygo subsequently undergoing surgery on March 10.

That began a demanding rehabilitation process which has kept him away from the pitch for the past six months.

After several weeks of work in the gym alongside Madrid’s rehabilitation staff, the 25-year-old has now been able to progress to outdoor running.

Real Madrid still face a long wait

Rodrygo’s return to the pitch should not be confused with a return to team training. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rodrygo Goes 👐🏾⚡️🇧🇷 (@rodrygogoes)

Sure, running is an important milestone in ACL rehabilitation, but the Brazilian still needs to complete several further stages before he can resume full football activity.

Real Madrid will therefore remain cautious with his recovery, particularly given the seriousness of the original injury and the additional damage to his meniscus.

The club’s current objective is for Rodrygo to become available to Jose Mourinho during the final stretch of the 2026/27 season.

That timeline gives the forward several more months to rebuild his fitness, strength and confidence before making his competitive comeback.