Rodrygo’s Striker Struggle: Adapting for the Team Despite Personal Discomfortas

Following Karim Benzema’s departure this summer, Real Madrid faced the daunting task of finding a suitable successor to fill the shoes of the legendary Frenchman. The club explored various striking options, but the identity of the long-term solution remains uncertain.

While Joselu arrived on loan from Espanyol as a temporary measure, the 33-year-old is seen as more of a stop-gap solution than a permanent one. The void left by Benzema’s departure prompted manager Carlo Ancelotti to reshape his tactics, deploying both Rodrygo and Vinicius Junior more centrally in a new 4-4-2 formation.

However, not everyone is content with their adjusted roles, and Rodrygo has expressed his reservations about playing as a central striker. In a recent interview with Cadena COPE, the Brazilian winger acknowledged the complexity of the situation, stating, “It’s complicated. The manager knows I don’t like playing as a ‘9’, but I do it for my team and for him as well, because I believe in him. He knows it and we don’t have problems [about it] anymore.”

Despite the discomfort, Rodrygo views this as an opportunity and an honor, emphasizing his commitment to the team and Ancelotti. He further explained, “It’s an opportunity and an honor for me, but my characteristics don’t fit well for it. I don’t like playing with my back to goal; I like to participate in the play, and as a ‘9’ you don’t get as many touches of the ball. Vini and I are adapting to the situation.”

Recent performances suggest that Rodrygo is finding his rhythm in this adjusted role, contributing three goals and three assists in the last two games. While the Brazilian remains a crucial element in Real Madrid’s forward line, hopes linger that this arrangement is temporary, allowing him to return to his preferred position once the club secures a long-term striker.

In the interim, Rodrygo, Vinicius, and the rest of the team strive to make the most of the situation, demonstrating resilience and adaptability in their current roles.