Rodrygo: "I hope to bring a lot of happiness, Hala Madrid!"

Rodrygo Goes was signed a year ago and is only now making the move from Brazil to Spain. The 18-year-old is excited as he embarks on this new chapter of his career with Real Madrid, which started with his presentation at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday.

“I thank God for all he has done for me, and also my family and the president for trusting in my work,” the youngster said as gave a brief speech at the podium after passing a medical and signing his contract. “I hope to bring a lot of happiness. Hala Madrid!”

Following his appearance on the pitch, the player then made his way to the press room to discuss his arrival in more detail and to answer questions from the media. “This is a dream come true for me,” he said. “All who knew me as a kid saw me always support Real Madrid and say that one day I’d play here. “I always told me family and representatives that I wanted to play for Real Madrid, the deal was closed in just 20 minutes.”

He has been compared a lot to Vinicius and spoke about these comparisons and about his fellow countryman. “We’re two young Brazilian players with similar characteristics, although there’s no need to make comparisons. I’m a quick forward who likes to score goals and to dribble. Many Brazilians have these characteristics. Vinicius has told me about his experiences and everyone has been telling me that I’m young and need to have patience.”

Neymar was also brought up and Rodrygo was asked if he wants to be “Real Madrid’s Neymar”, a question he answered by pointing to his own skills and personality. “I want to be the Rodrygo of Real Madrid,” he told the press room. Pressed on whether or not he’d like Neymar to sign for the Spanish club, the youngster simply said that he couldn’t talk about such matters given that the former Barcelona player is at another club.

Before Rodrygo spoke to the assembled press, Florentino Perez also gave a speech and discussed Los Blancos’ strategy of acquiring young prospects. “We’re signing special talent to face up to new challenges in these highly competitive times,” the president said. “There’s a need to sign young players who can define a new era at Real Madrid and this player has dreamed of this moment, ever since he started to grow as a player.”

Perez then addressed the teenager. “Your growth has been spectacular and you’re arriving at a club you love and to a stadium where the fans will support you as you aim to make history here,” he said. “Welcome to your new home, welcome to Real Madrid.”