Rodrygo Benched Again as Real Madrid Face Dortmund at Club World Cup

Rodrygo was on the bench again for Real Madrid’s Club World Cup match against Borussia Dortmund. That’s now four straight games on the sidelines for the Brazilian.

WHAT HAPPENED

In perhaps the most anticipated matchup of the Club World Cup to date, Rodrygo was left out of the starting XI for Saturday’s big quarterfinal against Dortmund. Stars such as Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Vinicius Jr. were selected to start, with Rodrygo again on the bench.

It’s not a surprising decision, but one that Rodrygo isn’t happy about. After finding out that he would start on the bench, Rodrygo even deleted the club’s matchday post from his social media as murmurs of discontent continue to swirl.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Rodrygo’s latest snub comes amid a tough time for the Brazilian winger, who ended the 2024-25 season with just 17 goals and 8 assists in all competitions, struggling with his confidence due to performances at the end of the last season.

According to a previous report, Rodrygo scored 17 goals and provided 8 assists in all competitions during the 2024/25 season.

Despite registering an assist in the Club World Cup just weeks ago, Rodrygo has struggled to claim a place in the starting XI on a regular basis. Madrid, meanwhile, have gone through in the Club World Cup after topping their group and beating Juventus 1-0 in the knockout rounds.

Real Madrid advanced to the quarterfinals of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup by defeating Juventus 1-0, as confirmed by a previous report.

WHAT NEXT?

Rodrygo’s absence from the starting XI hasn’t slowed down speculation regarding his future. There have been frequent rumors linking him with a move away from Madrid, with clubs like Arsenal, Manchester City, and Paris Saint-Germain reportedly interested. A summer exit seems increasingly likely for the Brazilian star.

According to a previous report, Arsenal, Manchester City, and Paris Saint-Germain are interested in Rodrygo.

Alonso has previously said he believes Rodrygo can find his best form, but, for now, the player must wait for his moment to prove himself. Madrid, meanwhile, are on the brink of Club World Cup success and, if Rodrygo can emerge as a hero in this run, perhaps he can find a way back into Alonso’s good graces.