Rodrygo has suffered a severe knee injury which is expected to keep him on the sidelines for approximately 10 months.
This has destroyed his World Cup hopes ahead of the summer competition where the winger was guaranteed a spot in Carlo Ancelotti’s final squad.
Neymar, Rodrygo’s Brazil teammate and the country’s all time top scorer, sent a message to the 25-year-old who will be on the sidelines for nearly a year.
"Today is one of the saddest days for me. When I found out about the injury, it all flashed before my eyes. All the suffering, all the anguish, and the fear of going through this injury!
“My number 10, my boy, my heir (as I call you), I only ask you one thing... 'take care of your head' now is the time to surround yourself with everyone you love… And as you said, you didn't deserve to go through this right now, but who are we to doubt God's plans.
“Little brother … STRENGTH, I'm sure you'll come back flying. I love you. In the same way you supported me, I'll be here for you!"
The injury will require surgery and a lengthy rehabilitation which will affect Rodrygo both mentally and physically.
Rodrygo has bagged three goals and registered six assists in 27 appearances in all competitions for Real Madrid during the 2025-26 campaign and will be a huge loss for the Spanish giants as well as the Brazil side whose World Cup dreams could be quashed.