Real Madrid’s pre-season didn’t get off to the perfect start but it was a memorable one for our summer signing Rodrygo Goes, who took his chance to impress Zinedine Zidane in the second half and scored a sublime free-kick goal late on. The 18-year-old Brazilian expressed his delight about making his debut.
“I’m really happy to have pulled on the Real Madrid shirt, regardless of the result. I’m really happy at having scored. Playing for Real Madrid is a massive responsibility, but I have to be ready at all times and I’ll always continue to work hard,” Rodrygo told reporters after the game.
Zinedine Zidane made an adjustment to his position, which could be because of the surplus of wingers that the French coach has in the squad but the young Brazilian is keen to prove his worth and says he’s enjoying playing in the middle as well, despite his preferred position being out on the wings.
“Zidane wants me to play more down the middle. I am typically more used to operating on the wings, but that is what the coach wants. It’s a position in which I am comfortable and enjoy.” he added.
It is unclear where Rodrygo will be playing his football next season but it’s likely that he will follow the path of his compatriot Vinicius Jr. – train with the first team regularly and play with Real Madrid Castilla until he is fully adapted to his new surroundings, but the player himself is unsure where his place will be.
“I am not sure whether I will be playing in the first team yet. It is up to Zidane and his staff to decide where is the best to utilise me. I am just focussed on getting a good first pre-season under my belt.”
Rodrygo then went on to reflect about the time he spent so far at his new club and the valuable experience of his first pre-season tour with the Whites.
“What I’ve been most surprised by are the training sessions, we’re talking about the best players in the world and I’m delighted to be playing with them. Some new players have come in and we’ve got to get up to speed and work with the whole team, that’s the most important thing.” concluded the Brazilian.
