Brazil winger Rodrygo has been confirmed as Real Madrid’s free-kick taker next season, ahead of teammates David Alaba and Toni Kroos.
The 22-year-old has scored just one free kick for the club, a stunning effort against Sevilla near the end of the season, but he has reportedly earned the right over the set plays following the departure of Karim Benzema.
Los Blancos have had some incredible options on set pieces over the years, with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Sergio Ramos proving to be very useful in such situations, and this may indicate a bigger role for Rodrygo next season.
It is unclear whether this will stretch to becoming the main corner taker ahead of Luka Modric and Kroos, but it is now expected as per AS, that he will be the main option for direct attacking free kicks.
What role will Rodrygo play next season?
The departures of Marco Asensio and Benzema have left Real Madrid lighter in attack, and whilst Brahim Diaz and Joselu have been added to the squad for numbers, it seems that Rodrygo and Vinicius Junior will have extra responsibility on their hands to lead the team in terms of goals and assists next season.
Rodrygo can play across the front three, and can occupy roles on the right or through the middle depending on who Carlo Ancelotti picks in midfield.
The Brazil international has not always been a guaranteed starter at the Santiago Bernabeu, but all indications point towards the young forward becoming one of the main players and stepping up in the absence of Benzema.
It is somewhat surprising that he has been chosen ahead of Kroos and Alaba, who both have extensive experience with direct free kicks, but now that he will be given further opportunities, this will be a great chance for Rodrygo to prove that he can be the free kick taker in the team for years to come.