Rodrygo steps up and makes Vinicius Jr’s absence irrelevant for Real Madrid | OneFootball

Real Madrid forward Rodrygo shone for Real Madrid against Brest, solidifying his place as one of the team’s standout performers.

His double against the Ligue 1 side in the Champions League marked his second consecutive match with a brace, following a similar performance against Salzburg.

The Brazilian winger has been in sensational form lately, particularly since recovering from his previous muscle injury, and his display against Brest further reinforced his growing influence on the pitch.

After scoring his first goal in the match, Rodrygo kissed the club badge, sending a clear message amidst ongoing rumours about his future.

A tally that keeps on increasing

Rodrygo has been in fine form of late. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

This season, Rodrygo has scored 12 goals, with a remarkable surge in his form over the past month and a half. Nine of these goals have come in his last 10 matches, reflecting the consistency and sharpness he has displayed recently.

His goalscoring run includes notable performances in the Champions League, where he scored twice against Salzburg, as well as in both Spanish Super Cup matches against Mallorca and Barcelona.

He also found the net in the Intercontinental Cup final against Pachuca. His domestic form in La Liga has been equally impressive. Rodrygo has scored in three of the last five league games, including goals against Rayo Vallecano, Sevilla, and Las Palmas.

In addition to his goalscoring, he has also contributed five assists during this period, showcasing his all-around impact on the team.

The Brazilian has been in relentless form since he netted a goal on January 9 against Mallorca. The only matches in which he has failed to score recently were against Celta in the Copa del Rey, where he played only 15 minutes, and against Valencia and Valladolid.

Forming an unlikely partnership

Rodrygo and Mbappe have complimented each other perfectly. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Rodrygo’s impressive partnership with Kylian Mbappe has also caught the attention of many, as the two have formed a dynamic attacking duo that has exceeded expectations.

While the partnership between the two was not something Madrid had planned for, their natural understanding on the pitch has been remarkable.

The fluidity with which they combine, including clever wall passes and perfectly timed runs, has made them a real threat.

They seem to anticipate each other’s movements almost instinctively, and this synergy has been evident in their recent performances against teams like Brest and Salzburg.

Making everyone forget Vinicius

Rodrygo has also stepped up during Vinicius Jr. absence, filling in for his compatriot during his suspension.

Rodrygo has filled in Vinicius’ void seamlessly. (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images)

Playing primarily on the left side of the attack this season, Rodrygo has been directly involved in 11 goals in just six appearances on that flank, scoring six and assisting five.

On the right side, where he has started 14 times, he has contributed six goals and two assists. These statistics highlight his versatility and the different ways in which he can impact the game, regardless of the position he plays in.

Ancelotti has been quick to recognise the unique qualities that both Rodrygo and Mbappe bring to the team. While they are not identical in style, they complement each other perfectly, offering different skills and strengths.

Rodrygo’s rise this season has not only bolstered Real Madrid’s attacking options but has also cemented his place as one of the top young talents in European football.

His form, his versatility, and his ability to deliver in crucial moments make him a player that Madrid can rely on in both domestic and European competitions.