Rodrygo announced on 7 July 2026 in New York that his knee rehab is advancing and he feels stronger each day, while offering candid thoughts on Brazil’s surprising 2026 World Cup run.
How is Rodrygo’s recovery going?
The 25‑year‑old forward explained that the past three and a half months have been a roller‑coaster of pain and hope. He described the worst days as “the hardest thing I’ve ever gone through,” but added that recent sessions have left him “happy with my progress” and able to run without pain on good days. He stressed patience, noting that some mornings still feel sluggish while others feel like he could sprint.
What does he think of the 2026 World Cup?
Rodrygo praised the tournament’s depth, pointing out that teams such as Cape Verde and Paraguay broke into the knockout stage, a sign of growing parity. He said Brazil approached every match “like a final,” a mindset forged during qualifying and carried through the group phase. The Brazilian camp, he noted, treated each of the eight possible games as a decisive showdown, which helped them find rhythm despite his absence.
Why does the expanded field matter?
He highlighted that more nations now have a realistic shot at the finals, making the competition richer and more unpredictable. The presence of “teams nobody expected” created a festive atmosphere that he “really enjoyed” from the sidelines. For Rodrygo, watching underdogs challenge traditional powers underscored how the sport is evolving globally.
What’s next for the Real Madrid winger?
While still on rehab in New York, Rodrygo is attending Adidas events and planning a gradual return to training with Real Madrid. He hinted that once cleared, he will aim to reclaim a starting spot and contribute to the club’s push for La Liga and Champions League titles. The forward’s optimism about his physical state suggests he could be match‑fit before the season’s second half begins.
How is the public reacting?
Fans in New York greeted him with enthusiasm, offering “wonderful” affection that he described as “gratifying.” The attention, he said, fuels his determination to finish recovery strong and return to the pitch where he can help Brazil and Real Madrid alike.
Rodrygo’s candid interview, conducted by *AS* on 7 July 2026, paints a picture of a player emerging from a difficult injury period, eager to rejoin his club and national team while appreciating the evolving landscape of international football.