The Brazilian, once a key figure in Madrid’s attack and hero of their famous Champions League comeback against Manchester City, has struggled for form and confidence this season.

His latest appearance Sunday’s unexpected draw against Girona marked 1,339 minutes without a goal, with his last strike coming in March against Atlético Madrid in the Champions League. His most recent La Liga goal dates all the way back to January 19 versus Las Palmas.

Rodrygo’s diminished impact has coincided with reduced playing time, starting just three of Real Madrid’s 14 league matches and only one Champions League game this season. Competition in the front line has intensified following Kylian Mbappé’s arrival and the continued rise of Vinícius Júnior, pushing Rodrygo further down Xabi Alonso’s pecking order.

Arsenal were heavily linked with Rodrygo during the summer as they explored attacking reinforcements, but the Gunners ultimately signed Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze, making another major forward signing unlikely before the next window. Manchester City, also previously interested, have now shifted their focus toward Bournemouth striker Antoine Semenyo.

The Brazilian has maintained publicly that he intends to stay unless Real Madrid instruct him otherwise, saying:“As long as Real Madrid want me, I’ll be here. If they tell me to find a team, I’ll go. But that hasn’t happened.”

Rodrygo is now in his seventh season at Madrid, but this prolonged goal drought leaves his future uncertain as the club continues to evolve its attacking structure.