Rodrigo, aged 25, priced at €100 million this summer with no takers, has only scored 3 goals this season and suffered a serious injury ruling him out of the World Cup.

Who is the most unfortunate player in Europe's top five leagues this season? It might just be Real Madrid's Brazilian star Rodrigo, following the club's Brazilian duo. Real Madrid confirmed on March 3rd that Rodrigo has suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament and a lateral meniscus tear in his right knee, not only ending his season but also, as the player himself confirmed, ruling him out of the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Rodrigo has consistently struggled to secure a starting spot at Real Madrid. During the summer transfer window, rumors circulated about his potential departure, with Real Madrid setting his price tag at €100 million. Many fans at the time joked that Rodrigo was a player "easily dismissed," but what happened? The entire summer passed without any offers; no club made a bid for him.

Unable to join a new team this season, Rodrigo reluctantly stayed at Real Madrid, lost his starting position, and managed only 3 goals. His market value dropped from €100 million last season to €60 million. In the latest La Liga match, where Real Madrid lost 0-1 at home to Getafe, Rodrigo came on as a substitute and suffered this severe injury. He will now miss the remainder of the season and the 2026 World Cup—truly a streak of terrible luck.

A torn anterior cruciate ligament and lateral meniscus tear represent such a major injury that it casts a huge question mark over Rodrigo's future career. This could mark the beginning of a decline for him, as losing his place and suffering a severe injury are both significant blows to a player's morale.

Finally, we wish Rodrigo a speedy recovery and hope to see his skillful play on the pitch again soon.