While Vinicius Junior shines for Castilla, another young Brazilian will not have to wait long to join him in Madrid. The promising 17-year-old Rodrygo Goes spoke with FourFourTwo about his aspirations and also revealed that he has been talking frequently with his fellow Brazilian. “I have seen Vinciuis Junior’s first moments with Real Madrid and we have exchanged many messages”. Rodrygo did not delve further into what those messages may have entailed, but there is no doubting his honor in having signed for Real Madrid, “I am very proud to have signed for the greatest team in the world. I want to be ready as soon as possible to make a big impact”. It will be interesting to note what decision Real Madrid takes with the youngster next season as the attacking line already bolsters formidable talent, that same talent is currently keeping Vinicius Junior out of the squad.
Despite the media attention, Rodrygo has his feet firmly planted on the ground, as noted by Managing Madrid’s own, Kiyan Sobhani, following his discussion with the player’s agent. His strong mentality, means he also has big aspirations, “ It would have been a pleasure to have played with Cristiano Ronaldo. He made history at Real Madrid and I want to follow in his footsteps.” Coupled with his desire to make history at Real Madrid is his desire to do the same with Brazil in the next World Cup, “After Brazil were eliminated from the World Cup, I told my father that the next World Cup could be my turn. I have a long journey ahead of me, but I hope to be in Qatar” Rodyrgo noted.
It is not just Vinicius who has been sending Rodrygo messages, the Madrid faithful have been very supportive, “I thank the people of Madrid for their trust in me, for their affection—they are always sending me messages even though it is a year before I join. I hope to be successful, to score many goals, and win many titles” Rodrygo commented.
One of the biggest challenges for Julen Lopetegui and the Madrid hierarchy is to keep the abundance of youth talent they have both happy and consistently developing. If Madrid can follow a similar path like that of the likes of Sergio Ramos, Marcelo, and Varane—all teenagers when they arrived and now world class superstars— then top talent will continue to choose Madrid as their preferred destination.