Stats show Real Madrid forward loves playing against Manchester City | OneFootball

Rodrygo is gearing up for Real Madrid’s crucial Champions League play-off tie against Manchester City, riding high on his best form in recent seasons.

Following an inconsistent 2024, the Brazilian winger has made an impressive turnaround in 2025. With Vinicius Jr. sidelined earlier this year, Rodrygo stepped up to dominate the left flank and has continued to perform well even when shifted to the opposite wing.

For what it is worth, Manchester City are a familiar and favourable opponent for Rodrygo and one of the most memorable moments of his career came on 4 April 2022.

Favourite opponent

Coming off the bench, he scored two vital goals that forced the match into extra time, sparking one of the most unforgettable comebacks in Real Madrid’s Champions League history. That night cemented his place in the club’s European folklore.

His heroics against City did not stop there. In the following season’s quarter-final clash, Rodrygo once again made a decisive impact. Playing at home, he scored one of Real Madrid’s goals in a 2-1 victory.

Rodrygo loves playing against Manchester City. (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)

In the return leg, his early strike helped push the game to extra time, giving Madrid a fighting chance. Across seven encounters with City, he has netted four goals and provided one assist, proving himself as a game-changer against Pep Guardiola’s side.

Important for Real Madrid

Rodrygo’s growing importance within the Real Madrid squad is evident. He has become a reliable attacking force for Carlo Ancelotti, contributing heavily to the team’s offensive play.

As he prepares to take on his favourite opponent in the Champions League, his role in the upcoming fixture is clear.

This season, Rodrygo’s numbers underline his impressive form. In 31 matches, he has scored 12 goals and provided eight assists, many of which have come in recent weeks.

His rising influence and ability to deliver in high-stakes matches make him one of Real Madrid’s key players as they seek to secure another memorable victory against Manchester City.