Rodrygo Has Only Played 348 Minutes in the First 15 Games This Season, a New Low Since Joining Real Madrid
Under manager Xabi Alonso’s tenure, the Brazilian forward’s situation at the club remains unchanged. He has only played 348 minutes in the first 15 games this season, setting a new low in the same period of his Real Madrid career.
Although Real Madrid coach Alonso has repeatedly emphasized in press conferences that Rodrygo is an important member of the team, the data presents a completely different picture. In terms of attack, only Endrick and Gonzalo García have fewer minutes than him. In fact, this is the season with the least playing time in the first 15 games since Rodrygo joined Real Madrid.
The following is the data of Rodrygo’s playing time in the first 15 games of each season since joining Real Madrid:
| Season | Stats (Games/Goals/Assists) | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|
| 2025-26 | 12 games/0 goals/2 assists | 348 |
| 2019-20 | 6 games/5 goals/1 assist | 370 |
| 2020-21 | 11 games/1 goal/4 assists | 404 |
| 2021-22 | 14 games/2 goals/1 assist | 509 |
| 2022-23 | 13 games/5 goals/5 assists | 828 |
| 2024-25 | 13 games/3 goals/2 assists | 883 |
| 2023-24 | 15 games/2 goals/1 assist | 1037 |
Notably, during the Club World Cup this summer, it was almost certain that he would leave the team—Alonso only let him start once in the opening game of the tournament. Towards the end of Carlo Ancelotti’s tenure, he also gradually lost his core status. Names of top clubs such as Bayern Munich, Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester City, and Tottenham Hotspur were frequently linked with him. However, he did not leave the Bernabéu this summer.
But his current situation may force the Brazilian forward to reconsider his future. With the World Cup approaching next year, if he continues to have such limited playing time, it will bring uncertainty to his place in the Brazilian national team. Therefore, it is necessary to closely monitor Rodrygo’s situation in the winter transfer window. At that time, it is not ruled out that he will hold talks with the club’s senior management and coach Alonso.
