Carlo Ancelotti will be spoiled for options next season, with the duo expected to significantly bolster the Real Madrid frontline. However, there could be a problem brewing in the Spanish capital.
According to Brazilian publication UOL, as quoted by TeamTalk, Rodrygo and Vinicius Junior have both expressed their concerns that the arrival of Endrick and Mbappe will limit their game-time at the Santiago Bernabeu. The report states that an ‘internal war’ is set to break out, which could lead to a high-profile departure this summer.
In April, Rodrygo insisted that he hoped to stay at Real Madrid forever. Speaking to beIN SPORTS, the 23-year-old winger said: “I love this club so much. I hope my future is always here. [Carlo Ancelotti] is like a father to me.”
Then, ahead of the Champions League final earlier this month, Rodrygo provided an update on his future. He said: “To be very direct, I am very happy at Real Madrid. I live a dream every day and it doesn’t cross my mind to leave the club of my life. Now we still have history to make [in the Champions League final].”
Meanwhile, in his pre-match press conference, Ancelotti confirmed that the club want to keep Rodrygo. The Italian said: “Rodrygo is a very important piece for us. He has been very important, he is, and he will be in the future, we have no doubt about that whatsoever.”
In an interview with Spanish outlet Diario AS shortly after defeating Borussia Dortmund at Wembley Stadium, Rodrygo added: “When they asked me if he was going to continue forever, I said yes, but there is no way to know.
“I still have a contract. I dream of staying here and I have the certainty that it will be so. If I can continue all my life, that’s how I will, until they don’t want me.”
As for Vinicius Junior, he also seems keen to stay at Real Madrid. Speaking to L’Equipe last year, as quoted by the Manchester Evening News, the winger said: “I think I could stay here my whole career, but the club of my life is Flamengo.
“I promised my father I would go back one day. I have to keep this promise. I love life here in general, and it’s going well for my family too. When my loved ones walk around, they are recognised and they wish us nothing but happiness.
“Little by little, I discovered this new life, new emotions, a fervour… Madrid is unique. Everyone around the world tells me about this club. And apart from that, I like it. I’m quite a homebody but we do a lot of activities.”
Then, in April, Vinicius Junior downplayed upheaval regarding Mbappe’s move to Real Madrid. As quoted by 90min, he said: “Everyone here wants to play with Kylian. I hope it happens one day. He is one of the best players, maybe the best.”
