Brazilian winger pays heartfelt farewell to Real Madrid boss amid mounting speculation over his own future

Real Madrid’s Rodrygo has posted an emotional tribute to departing manager Carlo Ancelotti, intensifying speculation about his own potential summer exit as Arsenal continue their pursuit of the Brazilian winger.

The 24-year-old took to social media to bid farewell to Ancelotti, who was officially confirmed to be leaving Real Madrid on 23 May to take up the Brazil national team role. However, this farewell message has been misinterpreted by some as Rodrygo announcing his own departure from the Spanish giants.

Rodrygo’s Tribute to Ancelotti

In his heartfelt Instagram post, Rodrygo wrote: “You’ve written one of the most incredible chapters in Club history: the coach with the most titles. And I was lucky enough that our paths crossed, a dream come true”.

The Brazilian added: “You’re not just a coach. You are a mentor and a friend. Together we win Spain, Europe… and the world. Now we’re going to conquer the world once again, this time with the yellow shirt”.

Ancelotti received an emotional farewell at the Santiago Bernabéu during Real Madrid’s final home match against Real Sociedad, with fans displaying a banner reading “Thank you Carletto”.

ADVERTISEMENT

Arsenal’s Complicated Pursuit

Despite the tribute being directed at Ancelotti rather than announcing his own exit, Rodrygo’s future at Real Madrid remains uncertain, with Arsenal leading the chase for his signature.

The Gunners have been in “concrete talks” regarding a potential transfer, but negotiations have hit significant obstacles. The primary stumbling block is Rodrygo’s wage demands of approximately €10 million net per season, which equates to roughly £300,000 per week gross in the UK tax system.

Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg revealed: “A move involving Rodrygo and Arsenal is proving to be very complicated. The biggest issue is his wage demands, reportedly around €10 million net per year. Arsenal are not prepared to go that far”.

Real Madrid’s Position

Real Madrid appear open to selling Rodrygo, particularly if they secure Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams as a replacement. The club initially set a £100 million asking price for the Brazilian, though reports suggest this valuation may have been reduced.

The final decision on Rodrygo’s future is expected to rest with incoming manager Xabi Alonso, who will replace Ancelotti. Rodrygo himself is reportedly keen to assess his standing under the new management before making any definitive decisions about his future.

Arsenal’s Transfer Strategy

With both Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard experiencing underwhelming seasons, Arsenal have identified wing reinforcement as a priority for the summer transfer window. The club’s reluctance to meet Rodrygo’s wage demands aligns with their traditionally prudent salary structure.

If the Rodrygo deal proves unattainable, Arsenal may pivot to alternative targets, including Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams, who is also on their radar.

Rodrygo has made just 22 La Liga starts this season, finding himself in a rotational role behind established stars like Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappé. This reduced playing time has fuelled speculation about a potential departure as he seeks regular first-team football.

The Brazilian’s situation remains fluid, with his high wage demands likely to limit the number of clubs capable of meeting his financial expectations outside of Saudi Arabian clubs.