Real Madrid’s start to the new season, according to Rodrygo, “couldn’t have been any better” as he assisted Los Blancos in maintaining their perfect record in LaLiga.
The Brazilian winger helped Madrid come back to defeat Mallorca 4-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu, capping a comeback that was started by Federico Valverde’s remarkable solo strike.
Madrid is the only side in the top five European leagues this season with a perfect record, having won five straight games in La Liga.
Madrid’s start to the current campaign with five league victories is unprecedented in this century (also 2009-10).
Rodrygo said:
“Our start couldn’t have been any better.
“This is the fruit of our efforts. We have two tough games coming up now, we have to keep working and doing the right things because we have everything in place to enjoy a fantastic season.”
At the beginning of the season, Rodrygo’s assist set up Vinicius Junior to score in his fourth straight league appearance, and the former is enjoying collaborating with his compatriot.
“Vini and I have a great understanding. We had to get closer to each other,” Rodrygo added.
“[Luka] Modric was threading balls between the lines, which is where the coach asked me to be for most of the game. I found space there, linked up with Vini, and the goal came. We just had to move closer.
“The gaffer asked me to attack the space, get in behind the defence. That was the only space you could find because they were very compact and it was tough to link up inside.
“We managed a few times, but it wasn’t easy. Then eventually the goals came.”
Valverde, a tenacious midfielder, drove forward from his half before unleashing a magnificent shot into the top-left corner to bring Madrid back into the game.
However, rather than any individual plaudits, Valverde’s main concern was picking up the three points.
Valverde said:
“I’m delighted to have got the win. The goal was beautiful, but the important thing was to win. We’ve got that pride and daring to go after the game even if we’re behind.
“I started running, saw the red shirts, and tried to get around them so I could keep going. When I saw them showing me inside, I took advantage of that and shot with my left. It was a team goal.
“I tried my luck often last season with my right, and I would always hit the post or see it go just wide.
“Now they’re going in, and I’m enjoying this spell.
“And I try to make the most of my qualities. Running with the ball is one of those.
“When things come off, it’s great. After the team has worked so hard, these things bring you real joy.”
Madrid has claimed six points from losing positions in LaLiga already this season.
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