Who is Alvaro Rodriguez, Karim Benzema’s long-term replacement?

The 18-year-old youngster has made his name in the Los Blancos shirt making an assist and scoring in two games.

Who is Alvaro Rodriguez?

As Alvaro Rodriguez, 18, entered the game against Osasuna, he first assisted Vinicius Junior, whose goal was disallowed for being offside, and then Marco Asensio, whose assist was recognised this time. The team led by Carlo Ancelotti then included him in the trip to Liverpool. But why did Ancelotti decide to deploy him in the starting lineup?

Due to Karim Benzema's ongoing fitness concerns, Real Madrid has had to improvise throughout the entire season, frequently using Rodrygo Goes or Marco Asensio as a central striker. But six minutes of combat with Osasuna may have completely altered the situation.

Early career and family background

Rodriguez was up playing in Palamos, a town in Catalonia close to Girona, where he was born. Before being signed by Real Madrid at the age of 16, he first participated in the Girona academy. He is of Charrua ancestry and recently played for their under-20 team in their second-place finish at the South American Championships. He is set to continue his international career with Uruguay despite having spent his entire life in Spain.

In addition to the five goals in 15 games he had managed for Real Madrid Castilla this season under Raul Gonzalez, he scored five goals in seven games. In place of Benzema, he was promoted to the senior team upon his comeback.

Rodriguez's style of play

Rodriguez is a tall, strong attacker who can operate both in the middle and out wide, where Raul has occasionally utilised him this year. Rodriguez has secured a starting position after defeating Iker Bravo, one of the most highly regarded players in Spanish football.

He is excellent at reading the game and moving around the field. Rodriguez makes effective space assaults and gives midfielders strong runs. He works relentlessly and isn't hesitant to put up a fight for his team because of his Uruguayan mindset.

Has Ancelotti found Karim Benzema’s replacement?

Rodriguez might be a useful player for Ancelotti given their dearth of natural strikers. With the possible exception of Rodrygo, Los Blancos lack any attackers that frequently run in from behind to lengthen the game. A forward of his size is also a challenge to defend against.

Since Ronaldo left, Benzema has single-handedly solved Real Madrid's goal-scoring issues, but his career is nearing its end, and Los Blancos will need to find a solution.

However, due to his ailments, the team has suffered in La Liga, as evidenced by the fact that they are currently seven points behind league leaders Barcelona.

It will be too early to predict, but we hope that Ancelotti can help him develop into one of the best strikers, just like he did with Vinicius Junior, whom he also helped become a brilliant player.