Real Madrid forward was never close to leaving despite Manchester City, Liverpool links | OneFootball

Real Madrid forward Rodrygo has put an end to the summer speculation surrounding his future.

According to Fabrizio Romano (h/t Madrid Xtra), the Brazilian winger was never close to joining Liverpool, Arsenal or Manchester City despite repeated rumours linking him with a Premier League switch.

Romano made it clear that no negotiations ever advanced, and that the player himself never considered leaving the Santiago Bernabeu.

Rodrygo remains fully committed to Real Madrid. At just 24 years old, he is indeed facing competition for places, but that has been the positive catalyst for him.

While players like Brahim Diaz and Franco Mastantuono add more competition to the forward line, the Brazilian’s stance is clear that he wants to stay and fight for his place under Xabi Alonso.

Silencing the doubters since the beginning

This is consistent with Rodrygo’s career so far at Madrid. Since his arrival in 2019, he has earned a reputation as a big-game player, scoring vital goals against the likes of Manchester City, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich in the Champions League.

Rodrygo was never close to leaving Real Madrid. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Even when competition in the squad intensified with stars such as Vinicius Jr. and Jude Bellingham shining, Rodrygo continued to find ways to contribute.

The Madrid board also value him highly. His contract, extended until 2028, includes a massive release clause, showing the club’s faith and determination to keep him.

Despite the rumours fuelled by English media, there was never a genuine opening for Premier League clubs to lure him away.

For Xabi Alonso, keeping Rodrygo motivated and hungry is a major asset. His versatility across the front line allows Madrid tactical flexibility, while his knack for scoring in decisive moments makes him a player the club are unwilling to lose.

As things stand, Rodrygo is going nowhere and remains an integral part of Real Madrid’s future.