Real Madrid sent a statement to Europe with a commanding 3-1 win over Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League playoffs and qualifying for the Round of 16.
While Kylian Mbappe was the star of the show, bagging a hattrick on the night, Rodrygo played his part by picking up an assist for Mbappe’s second goal.
But while the Madridistas were still celebrating at the Santiago Bernabeu, Rodrygo had his mind elsewhere.
Shortly after the final whistle, the 24-year-old made it clear that his priority wasn’t dwelling on the win or in giving interviews to the press—it was catching Neymar in action for Santos.
While giving an interview, Rodrygo admitted he was eager to leave the stadium quickly so he could watch his childhood idol play in the Paulista A1. “I need to get home FAST. Neymar and Santos are playing,” said the Brazilian winger.
It turned out to be a good night all around for the Madrid man, as Neymar’s Santos cruised to a 3-0 victory over Noroeste.
Since returning to Santos in January, Neymar has made 5 appearances and bagged a goal and an assist in his first few games.
Before joining Real Madrid, Rodrygo developed at Santos—the same club that produced Neymar. He made 80 senior appearances, scoring 17 goals, so with Neymar back at his boyhood club, it’s no surprise Rodrygo was eager to watch his idol in action.
Even after helping Madrid take down Europe’s elite, his heart remains tied to his roots.
