Unrest at Real Madrid? Rodrygo’s Clasico Absence Sparks Questions as Los Blancos Blow 2-0 Lead Against Barcelona
Real Madrid’s dramatic 4-3 defeat to Barcelona in the latest El Clásico has left more than just La Liga points on the line — it’s opened up questions about internal harmony at the Santiago Bernabéu.
In a surprising revelation during the post-match press conference, manager Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that Brazilian forward Rodrygo Goes made himself unavailable for the high-stakes clash, stating he “did not feel strong enough to play.” The admission raised eyebrows, given the magnitude of the fixture and Madrid’s ongoing injury concerns.
“Rodrygo told us he wasn’t feeling at 100%. In these moments, you have to listen to the player. If a player doesn’t feel physically or mentally prepared, it’s better not to force it,” Ancelotti told reporters.
The decision proved costly as Real Madrid, despite taking an early 2-0 lead through goals from Jude Bellingham and Vinícius Jr., crumbled in the second half. Barcelona mounted a spirited comeback, with Robert Lewandowski, Pedri, and a late winner from João Félix sealing a famous win for the Catalans at the Bernabéu.
The absence of Rodrygo, who has often been decisive in big games, left Madrid short of firepower in the final stages as Barcelona tightened their grip. Ancelotti, when pressed about whether there was more to Rodrygo’s withdrawal, insisted the player’s choice was respected — but speculation is already swirling in Spanish media about potential unrest in the dressing room.
The Clasico defeat was a blow to Real Madrid’s title hopes and further highlights the squad’s growing list of absentees in a season riddled with injuries. The team will need to regroup quickly as they prepare for upcoming fixtures in both La Liga and the Champions League.
Meanwhile, Rodrygo is expected to return to training this week, but all eyes will be on how the club handles the situation moving forward — and whether this incident hints at deeper cracks behind Madrid’s usually composed exterior.