Brazilian legend Marcos Evangelista de Moraes, better known as Cafu, has named Real Madrid’s most indispensable player. Despite the presence of Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappé, the former right-back has highlighted a surprising element in Carlo Ancelotti’s squad.
There’s plenty going on around Real Madrid. Recently knocked out of the Champions League, Florentino Pérez’s club continues its pursuit of greatness, dreaming of a historic double in La Liga and the Copa del Rey. Ahead of next Saturday’s Copa final against Barcelona, the Spanish press is dissecting the strengths and weaknesses of Ancelotti’s side, which has struggled this season. With big names such as Kylian Mbappé, Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo Goes and Jude Bellingham, the media is keen to assess the importance of each. In this context, Cafu has broken his silence to share his thoughts.
Rodrygo: Madrid’s key man, according to Cafu
In a recent interview, Cafu – a true icon of Brazilian football who played for clubs like AS Roma and AC Milan – was full of praise for his young compatriot. According to the 54-year-old, neither Mbappé nor Vinicius are the most important players in the Madrid squad. “Rodrygo is the real motorzinho, the little engine of Real Madrid,” he said.
In his view, the Brazilian forward plays a key role in the team’s fluidity and attacking dynamics. When Rodrygo is in top form, the entire offensive system of Real Madrid appears more harmonious, allowing players like Vinicius, Mbappé, Valverde and even Bellingham to fully express themselves.
Cafu’s praise doesn’t stop there. He highlights Rodrygo’s crucial impact on the team’s overall performance: “When he’s not in form, you can immediately sense a drop in effectiveness when building attacks.” This observation rings particularly true as Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti faces inconsistent performances from his players in recent weeks.
A tactical shift that’s harming Rodrygo?
It must be said, since the arrival of Kylian Mbappé, Carlo Ancelotti has adapted his preferred 4-4-2 into a 4-3-3 to accommodate his three star forwards. While one might expect fireworks from this attacking trio, Real Madrid have lost their balance, leading to numerous disappointments this season. Aware that his plan isn’t working, the Italian coach has decided to revert to his trusted 4-4-2 towards the end of the season. Against Athletic Bilbao last weekend, this system was used, with Rodrygo and Vinicius leading the line.
Unfortunately, Cafu’s favourite forward failed to shine. Lacking confidence and struggling in front of goal for several weeks, Rodrygo Goes once again delivered a disappointing performance. According to reports, Ancelotti is now considering benching him, opting instead for Mbappé and Vinicius up front against Barça in Saturday’s Copa del Rey final. The big question now is whether Rodrygo can regain his form and starting place in the 4-4-2 setup.
Endrick, Cafu’s other favourite
Perhaps, like in the good old days, a system change could do Goes some good. It’s worth noting that the presence of young Brazilian prodigy Endrick is making things more complicated for the Madrid coach. In his media appearance, Cafu also expressed optimism about the 18-year-old striker, who has impressed Ancelotti towards the end of the season. “Joining Real Madrid is an excellent decision for Endrick,” Cafu said approvingly.
In any case, Cafu’s comments shed light on an often overlooked aspect of Real Madrid: its collective spirit. While stars like Mbappé and Vinicius frequently steal the spotlight, it is players like Rodrygo — quiet yet essential — who help maintain the team’s balance. With a packed schedule and high ambitions, will Real Madrid be able to make the most of this delicate balance to achieve success?
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