After missing the last two international windows, Rodrygo is finally back in action after being called up by his former coach Carlo Ancelotti for October's friendlies against Asian giants South Korea and Japan.
Rodrygo's drop in formRodrygo experienced a drop in form this summer at Santiago Bernabéu, losing his starting place in Madrid. The lack of playing time for his club affected his chances of selection, as he was not selected for the Brazil squad for the June and September matches. However, the winger finally has the opportunity to earn the trust of his former coach Ancelotti and stay in the race for a place at next year's World Cup.
Rodrygo, whose last appearance for the Selecao was in March, in a 4-1 defeat to Argentina, told reporters: “ It was a very long time, being away from the Brazil team seemed like an eternity. It was difficult, I went through a lot during this period. But it was a good thing, it allowed me to think, calm down and clear my head. I feel good and ready to come back, to give the best of myself, to show my best profile with the Seleçao. It's been a long time, but now I'm back, I feel good and I hope to contribute as much as possible. »
Rodrygo banks on the Ancelotti factor
Speaking about the influence of Ancelotti, the former Real Madrid coach, on the Brazilian team, Rodrygo added: “ I think when you are on the pitch you watch Ancelotti guide you, it gives you a different weight. I think this is also the case for our adversaries.
“We are going to play against Brazil, whose coach is Ancelotti. » People respect him more. This gives us more credibility. And, of course, I will always say good things about him, because he is someone who has always helped me a lot, who made me grow, and having a coach like him at your side leaves you speechless. »
Rodrygo has yet to earn Alonso's trust at Real, having only started once in La Liga this season, despite being in the squad for all eight games. If he performs well against the Asian side, the 24-year-old could convince Alonso to give him more playing time.
