Key Takeaways:
- Rodrygo ruptured his right knee’s ACL and lateral meniscus during Real Madrid’s 1-0 defeat to Getafe
- Real Madrid remain without Kylian Mbappé (knee sprain) and suspended Franco Mastantuono, leaving limited forward options
- Brazil’s upcoming World Cup preparations face disruption, with Rodrygo out for the tournament
Setback for Madrid and Brazil as Rodrygo Faces Long-term Absence
Real Madrid have confirmed that their forward Rodrygo has sustained a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament as well as lateral meniscus damage in his right leg, ruling him out of Brazil’s World Cup squad and sidelining him for the remainder of the 2026 campaign.
Rodrygo had returned to the pitch on Monday during Real Madrid’s narrow 1-0 defeat to Getafe. The injury occurred after a challenge with an opponent left him clutching his knee near the touchline. Despite the incident, Rodrygo continued for thirty minutes, though it was clear he was struggling to move freely.
Real Madrid and Brazil forward Rodrygo has torn his ACL and will miss the World Cup, according to multiple reports.
— B/R Football (@brfootball) March 3, 2026
Selection Crisis Ahead of Key Fixtures
This fresh injury compounds difficulties for manager Carlo Ancelotti, who is already contending with the absence of Kylian Mbappé due to a knee sprain and the suspension of Franco Mastantuono, sent off against Getafe. As a result, Vinicius Junior, Gonzalo Garcia, and Brahim Diaz – the latter currently appearing to be out of the head coach’s favour – are the sole fit forwards available.
Real Madrid currently trail league leaders Barcelona by four points in La Liga and are set to meet Manchester City in the Champions League last-16.
Brazil’s Preparations Derailed
Rodrygo’s absence also comes as a significant setback for Brazil, with a pair of friendlies against France and Croatia scheduled in the coming weeks as part of their World Cup preparations.
Ancelotti Faces Tactical Dilemma
With options in attack severely restricted, Carlo Ancelotti is faced with the challenge of restructuring his line-up as Real Madrid enter a crucial stage both domestically and in European competition.
