A Real Madrid player ‘refused’ to play in Sunday’s 4-3 La Liga defeat against Barcelona, according to reports from Spain.
Real Madrid surged to an early 2-0 lead at the Estadi de Montjuïc on Sunday (May 11), courtesy of a brace from Kylian Mbappe, stunning the home crowd.
However, Barcelona mounted an impressive comeback, taking a 4-2 lead by halftime with goals from Eric Garcia, a beautifully curled strike by Lamine Yamal, and two from Raphinha.
Although Mbappe completed his hat-trick in the 70th minute, it was Barcelona who claimed victory, extending their lead at the top of La Liga to seven points with only three games left.
Real Madrid started a strong lineup featuring Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, and Arda Guler. Notably absent was Rodrygo, amid reports he declined to play.
According to MARCA, the Brazilian winger told the coaching staff he “didn’t feel strong or ready to play,” even though he had trained four times during the week—though he reportedly wasn’t feeling well.
Despite this, Carlo Ancelotti included him in the matchday squad, reportedly to shield the player from external criticism, though he ultimately didn’t make an appearance.
Rodrygo, 24, had previously been subbed off at halftime during last month’s Copa del Rey final loss to Barcelona and missed the May 4 league game against Celta Vigo due to illness.
Following the match, Carlo Ancelotti addressed Rodrygo’s absence, explaining: “He had recovered, but wasn’t feeling right. He wasn’t at 100%. I have no issue with him—he recently had a fever, and putting him on for just five minutes when he’s unwell could lead to injury.”
Rodrygo has recently been linked with a potential move to the Premier League, with Liverpool, Arsenal, and Manchester City all reportedly showing interest in the Brazilian winger.
While his current La Liga season has seen modest returns—six goals and five assists in 30 appearances—his natural ability is widely recognized. In fact, teammate Jude Bellingham called Rodrygo the most gifted player at the club during a February interview.
“Rodrygo is so underrated,” Bellingham told CBS Sports Golazo. “To me, he’s probably the most talented and technically gifted player in the squad.”
He continued: “Sometimes when we’re messing around, he’ll do something unbelievable with the ball, and I’m left wondering how he managed it. I try it and end up twisting my ankles. It’s a joy to play alongside both him and Vini. You give them the right opportunities, and they’ll win you games.”
