Rodrygo, the Brazilian international who plays for Real Madrid, will be sidelined for the remainder of the season and the upcoming World Cup due to a torn ACL and meniscus in his right knee.
According to sources, Rodrygo had experienced discomfort in his knee prior to sustaining the injury during Monday’s unexpected 1-0 loss to Getafe.
The club confirmed in a statement: “After tests conducted by the Real Madrid Medical Services, Rodrygo has been diagnosed with a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament and lateral meniscus in his right knee.”
On Tuesday, Rodrygo took to social media to express his disappointment, calling it one of the hardest days of his life.
In his post, he stated: “A significant obstacle has come up in my life and career, preventing me from doing what I love most for a while. I am out for the rest of the season with my club and unable to participate in the World Cup, a dream that holds immense meaning for me. All I can do is remain strong, as I always have.”
“This is truly one of the hardest days of my life. I’ve always feared this kind of injury. Perhaps life has been a bit cruel to me lately… I don’t know if I deserve this, but I’ve also experienced so many wonderful things that I didn’t deserve either,” he added.
Sources indicate that Rodrygo will be out for approximately eight months, but his recovery will be closely monitored, and his return will depend on his progress.
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) released a statement on Tuesday: “The CBF expresses its solidarity with Rodrygo, who suffered a severe injury during the match against Getafe in La Liga. We wish him a speedy recovery and hope to see him back on the field soon.”
Rodrygo was not part of Brazil’s squad for their last four World Cup qualifying matches last year, yet he featured in all four friendlies under coach Carlo Ancelotti in October and November.
Neymar, who faced a similar ACL and meniscus injury earlier in 2023, expressed his sadness over Rodrygo’s plight. He reflected on the emotional toll of such injuries in a heartfelt message on his social media.
“To my number 10, my boy, my heir,” Neymar wrote, “I only ask that you take care of yourself mentally. Surround yourself with loved ones during this time. You didn’t deserve to go through this. But we must trust in God’s plans. I’m confident you will come back stronger. I love you, and just like you supported me, I am here for you.”
This season, Rodrygo has made 27 appearances for Real Madrid across all competitions, scoring three goals and providing six assists.
Report contributed by The Associated Press.