Real Madrid open to offers for Rodrygo as squad reshapes under Mourinho

José Mourinho is back at the Santiago Bernabéu. The Portuguese manager, who returned to Real Madrid in June on a multi-year deal, has reportedly drawn up an exit list of six players as part of a comprehensive squad overhaul. Near the top of that list sits Rodrygo Goes, the Brazilian forward previously valued at north of €100 million.

Here’s the thing: Rodrygo doesn’t want to leave. The 25-year-old has publicly stated his desire to remain at the club and compete for a starting role. Real Madrid, however, appears willing to let market forces decide his future, entertaining permanent offers rather than loan arrangements.

Mourinho’s clean sweep

Mourinho’s return to Madrid comes after a stint managing Benfica, with Real Madrid owing the Portuguese club a compensation package reportedly between €7 million and €15 million.

The exit list extends well beyond Rodrygo. Eduardo Camavinga, Raúl Asencio, Fran García, Dani Ceballos, and Franco Mastantuono are all reportedly on the chopping block. That’s six players Mourinho is prepared to move on from, a signal that this isn’t a gentle tweak but a full-scale renovation.

Real Madrid endured two consecutive trophyless seasons before making the managerial change.

The Rodrygo paradox

Rodrygo has been a key contributor at Real Madrid since arriving from Santos as a teenager, playing a crucial role alongside fellow Brazilian Vinícius Júnior. Despite his contributions, he has struggled to secure a preferred position on the team, often being utilized out of his natural role. He has also been dealing with recent injury setbacks.

Earlier assessments pegged Rodrygo at over €100 million, a figure that reflects both his talent and the premium attached to any Real Madrid forward in his mid-twenties.

Real Madrid’s insistence on permanent transfers rather than loans is telling. They want clean exits that generate transfer revenue, money that can presumably be redirected toward Mourinho’s preferred targets.

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