Rodrygo Facing Long Road Back: January 2027 Best Case Return
The full extent of Rodrygo’s injury nightmare is becoming clear — and the timeline is sobering. According to Diario AS, Real Madrid and the Brazilian forward’s personal trainer Marcel Duarte have now established a defined recovery plan, with January 2027 representing the most optimistic possible return date.
Rodrygo suffered a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament and damage to the external meniscus in his right knee in early March, requiring surgery that immediately ruled him out for several months. While initial estimates placed his recovery at around six to seven months, newer assessments indicate a significantly longer timeline.
Rodrygo now attends daily sessions at Valdebebas, where he works with the club’s rehabilitation staff, particularly Italian specialist Davide Violati. These morning sessions are complemented by afternoon workouts at his home gym, focusing on strengthening his upper body, core, and left leg — all supervised by his personal fitness coach Marcel Duarte, who has worked with him since his arrival at Real Madrid and coordinates closely with the club.
Rodrygo has been meeting his recovery milestones, even slightly ahead of schedule, which offers some encouragement — but the nature of an ACL injury means caution must take precedence over optimism.
Support from Eder Militão has also been crucial during this difficult period, with the defender — who has experienced similar injuries himself — helping guide Rodrygo through the process.
The timing could not be worse on multiple fronts. Rodrygo will now miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he was expected to be a major player in Brazil’s squad. Back at club level, his absence alongside an injured Kylian Mbappé leaves Vinicius Junior carrying the bulk of Real Madrid’s attacking burden, with Franco Mastantuono, Brahim Díaz, and Gonzalo García expected to fill the void.
For a player who had found brilliant form in January and February before the injury struck, the wait until 2027 will feel like an eternity.