Rodrygo opens up on relationship with Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Jr amidst Real Madrid rift rumours
Real Madrid star Rodrygo Goes has insisted that there are no differences between him, Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior at the Santiago Bernabeu. Los Blancos have a galaxy of stars at their disposal at the moment and recent reports have hinted that Rodrygo is feeling left out.
The Brazilian's future with the La Liga giants has been subject to speculation all summer following Kylian Mbappe's arrival. Rodrygo flourished in a center-forward role for Real Madrid last season but has now been pushed to the right to accommodate the French superstar.
It is believed that the Brazilian was considering his future over the summer. Rodrygo was reportedly identified by Manchester City as the ideal replacement for Julian Alvarez. It was reported that Arsenal and Liverpool wanted to sign the player as well.
The Brazilian was also embroiled in a controversy over a WhatsApp status, which fuelled speculation regarding a rift with Jude Bellingham and Co. It was suggested that Rodrygo felt underappreciated at Los Blancos, and was irritated with the media's obsession with Bellingham, Mbappe and Vinicius Junior.
While he ended up staying at Real Madrid, rumours of tensions behind the scenes refused to subside. However, Rodrygo has now come out to refute those claims.
Speaking recently, as cited by acclaimed journalist Fabrizio Romano, the 23-year-old insisted that they are all good friends.
“My relationship with Mbappé, Bellingham and Vinícius is very good. Every day we are better and we are more friends,” said Rodrygo.
Rodrygo's contract with Real Madrid expires in 2028.
The four superstars of Real Madrid - Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappe, Rodrygo and Vinicius Junior
Jude Bellingham was indispensable for Los Blancos last season and remains a vital cog in Carlo Ancelotti's plans. Vinicius is among the frontrunners for Ballon d'Or and is undroppable from the starting XI.
The Frenchman, meanwhile is the La Liga giants' crown jewel, having made the long-awaited move this summer. The club went through a lot of trouble to get their hands on the 25-year-old and see him as the face of their future. Kylian Mbappe has had a mixed start to life at the Santiago Bernabeu, but now has five goals from seven appearances under Carlo Ancelotti.
Rodrygo, meanwhile, has registered one goal and two assists from seven games. However, with a long season ahead, everyone is likely to get their fair share of opportunities under the Italian manager.