The bitter truth: Stats prove why Real Madrid star has lost prominence this season | OneFootball

Until the previous season, Rodrygo was considered as crucial to Real Madrid’s success as his teammate Vinicius Jr.

Both Brazilian players had made significant contributions to the team, with Rodrygo often shining in high-pressure situations. However, fast forward to the date, he seems to have lost some of his prominence, despite being one of the more reliable performers on the squad.

To provide some context, Rodrygo has participated in 11 matches this season but has completed only one of them. His playing time has decreased for various reasons, including changes in the team’s formation, injuries, and tactical decisions made by Carlo Ancelotti.

For instance, during a recent match against Villarreal, Rodrygo did not enter the game until the 70th minute. Additionally, he was sidelined for the match against Lille due to a back problem, further impacting his opportunities to contribute on the pitch.

Brutal season for Rodrygo

Rodrygo has completed just one match this season. (Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images)

This season has not been particularly fruitful for Rodrygo in terms of goal-scoring. While he has managed to find the net three times—similar to how he scored the first goal for Madrid last season—his overall involvement in matches has been limited.

Out of the 12 games played by Real Madrid so far, he only completed one match, which was against Mallorca, where he scored the team’s sole goal.

In the other matches, excluding his absence against Lille, he has failed to finish any. For example, in the UEFA Super Cup, he played for 76 minutes, and in the Champions League opener against Stuttgart, he played for 75 minutes.

In La Liga, Rodrygo has been present in all nine games played so far, starting in six and coming off the bench in three. He is averaging a mere 69 minutes per match. This has allowed him to accumulate about 77% of the total minutes played by the team.

Ancelotti’s change in tactics

Carlo Ancelotti has preferred Mbappe over Rodrygo. (Photo by CESAR MANSO/AFP via Getty Images)

However, Ancelotti’s current strategy of fielding only two attackers, specifically Vinicius and Kylian Mbappe, along with four midfielders, has significantly reduced the chances for Rodrygo to start in matches.

This shift in tactics has diminished his previously expected role on the team, leading to more frustrations and a sense of uncertainty regarding his future with the squad.

The situation is becoming increasingly complicated for Rodrygo, as he finds his position in the starting lineup and his standing within the team being jeopardized.

It seems we have seemingly forgotten his past contributions, particularly in high-stakes matches like those in the Champions League, where he scored critical goals against formidable opponents such as Manchester City.

Rodrygo’s ability to adapt and perform well in various positions on the field has always been one of his strong suits. Last season, he ranked third on the team in terms of minutes played, logging a remarkable 3,707 minutes and netting 17 goals.

Future in question?

Rodrygo has scored just three goals this seson. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

This year, however, Rodrygo must reassess and modify his approach if he wishes to regain a more prominent role within the team. He needs to seize any opportunities that come his way and demonstrate to Ancelotti that he deserves a starting spot.

The competition for places is fierce, especially with the addition of top talents like Mbappé, but Rodrygo’s past performances suggest he has the ability to rise to the occasion.

He must regain the form and confidence that made him an essential player for Real Madrid in the past.

In summary, while Rodrygo is undoubtedly facing challenges this season, his potential remains undeniable. He must strive to make an impact whenever he steps onto the pitch, proving his worth not just to the coach but also to his teammates and supporters.