Rodrygo opens up on special relationship with Ancelotti and desire to play under Mourinho: ‘Like a father to us’ | OneFootball

Rodrygo may be absent from the World Cup because of injury, but the Real Madrid forward remains closely connected to football’s biggest stage while continuing his recovery process.

The Brazilian attacker has travelled to the United States during his rehabilitation, attending promotional events and watching matches while keeping a close eye on Brazil’s progress. 

At the same time, Rodrygo has reflected on the coaches who have influenced his career, reserving special praise for Carlo Ancelotti and expressing enthusiasm about the prospect of working under José Mourinho.

In an article written for The Guardian, the Real Madrid star highlighted the importance managers have in a player’s development and career progression.

Rodrygo praises Carlo Ancelotti

Rodrygo’s comments on Ancelotti have attracted attention, especially considering the strong relationship the two built during their time together at Real Madrid.

The Brazilian recalled his memorable substitution against Manchester City in the Champions League at the Santiago Bernabeu, a tactical decision that changed the momentum of the match.

“I mention this moment to highlight the importance of coaches in a team’s journey and their decisive role in a player’s career, doing work that often goes unnoticed by the public,” explains Rodrygo.

Rodrygo has nothing but respect for Ancelotti. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)

The forward then spoke about Ancelotti’s management style and why it is often misunderstood from the outside.

“As a player coached by Ancelotti, I’ve had a variety of experiences. I think players find it easier to understand his methods because the real reality of football unfolds behind the scenes, not in front of the cameras. 

“For the press and anyone outside the dressing room, it’s difficult to predict his decisions. 

“It’s natural for them to feel a bit baffled when trying to understand his mindset, as they expect him to choose one path and he ends up opting for another,” explains the Brazilian.

Rodrygo wants to play under Mourinho

Rodrygo injury update remains an important topic for Real Madrid, with the winger currently working towards a full return after suffering a serious setback that ruled him out of the World Cup.

Despite being sidelined, the Brazilian remains optimistic about the future and is already looking ahead to the next chapter of his career.

Continuing his tribute to Ancelotti, Rodrygo said, “Ancelotti is like a father to us. He’s a man I admire enormously, both as a manager and as a person. 

Rodrygo is eager to work with Mourinho. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“He talks to us and offers advice on matters both on and off the pitch. I’ve heard that a series or documentary is being filmed about Ancelotti, and I’m sure it will be incredible,” he added.

Rodrygo also acknowledged several other influential figures in his journey.

“Throughout my career, I’ve been guided by top-class managers, as well as people I respect and am grateful to, such as Zinedine Zidane, Fernando Diniz, Xabi Alonso and Álvaro Arbeloa.”

The Real Madrid forward then admitted his excitement about potentially working under Mourinho.

“I’m continuing my recovery in the firm hope of joining Real Madrid under José Mourinho, a manager who has everything it takes to get us back on the path to success. 

“In a sport as competitive as football, it’s impossible not to be excited about working with a professional known as ‘The Special One’,” he concluded.