Why Rodrygo didn't play in 4-3 defeat against Barcelona in El Clasico?

The Brazilian is linked with a move away from Barcelona.

Rodrygo’s absence from the El Clásico was not thought to be related to a transfer because the Brazilian was still ill and missed Real Madrid’s 3-2 victory against Celta Vigo the week before.

Despite rejoining Carlo Ancelotti’s team for the crucial LaLiga top-of-the-table match, the winger was not utilised as a substitute and apparently didn’t even warm up during Madrid’s second-half comeback.

Due to some terrible defensive plays, the visitors lost 4-3 after falling behind 4-2 at halftime after establishing an early 2-0 lead. With three games remaining, Barcelona’s lead over Los Blancos has grown to seven points, putting them on the verge of winning LaLiga.

Rodrygo’s participation-or—lack thereof—was one of the key takeaways from the Clasico. The second part of the 2024–25 season has seen the winger’s impact begin to decline, and there have been rumours that he would be leaving this summer.

More rumors of a possible move were raised by the fact that Rodrygo wasn’t used off the bench on Sunday, but according to Spanish media outlet MARCA, he is still afflicted with the illness that kept him out of action the week before. In the midst of rumours about his future, the Brazilian’s head wasn’t in the proper place.

Despite finishing four training sessions over the week, the winger allegedly told the club’s medical staff that he didn’t feel fit enough to participate following the victory over Celta.

Although the Turkish sensation is more at ease drifting infield than the Brazilian, Arda Guler filled in for Rodrygo down Madrid’s right once more. There are rumours that Guler might play a bigger part next season as Rodrygo might leave.

The 24-year-old might want a change of scenery, but Real Madrid are unlikely to compel him to leave. Three Premier League teams—Arsenal, Manchester City, and Liverpool—have been linked with a move for Rodrygo, who has contributed 22 goals in 50 games this season.

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