8 Impressive Facts About Rodrygo de Goes From Childhood in Brazil
- Think Football Ideas
- Mar 14
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 18
Full Name: Rodrygo Silva de Goes
Date of Birth: 9 January 2001
Place of Birth: Osasco, Brazil
Height: 1.74 m (5 ft 9 in)
Position(s): Winger, Forward
Current Club: Real Madrid
Jersey Number: 11
When you hear of a young footballer like Rodrygo, who is plying his trade at Real Madrid and regularly starting in the first team, it’s easy to assume that his rise to stardom was always set in stone.
However, behind every dazzling dribble and clinical finish lies a story of determination, sacrifice, and a passion for the game that began in the bustling city of Osasco, long before he graced the hallowed grounds of the Santiago Bernabéu, with fans and pundits alike eager to see just how high he will soar in years to come.
Below Are 8 Interesting Facts About Rodrygo Silva de Goes
1. He was born in Osasco, São Paulo
Rodrygo was born in Osasco, São Paulo, a city known for its vibrant energy and diverse community. Growing up there, he was surrounded by the pulse of Brazilian football, where passion for the game runs through the streets.
Osasco, with its tight-knit neighborhoods and competitive spirit, helped shape Rodrygo into a young player determined to carve out his path to stardom. It was here that the seeds of his football dream were planted.
2. He joined Santos' youth setup in 2011 at age 10
At just 10 years old, Rodrygo’s raw talent was already beginning to shine, and in 2011, he was welcomed into the youth academy of one of Brazil’s most iconic football clubs, Santos FC.
It was a dream come true for the young boy from Osasco, who quickly adapted to the fast-paced world of professional youth football. Surrounded by some of the country’s brightest prospects, Rodrygo began to hone his skills, setting the stage for what would become a meteoric rise in Brazilian football.
3. His first professional contract was a 5-year deal
Rodrygo’s first professional contract at the age of 16 was a clear signal that Santos believed in his immense potential. The five-year deal, which was signed in 2017, wasn’t just a formality—it was a commitment to a promising future.
It marked the transition from a talented youth prospect to a full-fledged professional, ready to take on the world. Santos recognised his brilliance, and with this contract, they ensured that Rodrygo would have the chance to shine on the grand stage, with all eyes on his next moves.
4. He was once the youngest Santos player to appear in the Copa Libertadores
In 2018, Rodrygo etched his name in the history books by becoming the youngest player ever to feature in the Copa Libertadores for Santos at the tender age of just 17 years and 50 days.
Stepping onto the pitch in one of South America's most prestigious tournaments, the pressure was on—but Rodrygo never flinched. His composure and confidence defied his years, showing he was ready for the big stage even as a teenager.
5. Real Madrid came calling as he excelled at Santos
Rodrygo’s dazzling performances at Santos didn’t go unnoticed for long, and in 2018, Real Madrid came calling. The Spanish giants didn't only see the raw talent, they saw the potential for greatness.
For Rodrygo, it was a dream come true to be courted by one of the world’s most successful clubs. In 2019, he made the move to Madrid, where he would join the ranks of legends and continue his journey toward becoming a global star. The transfer was a huge step, but for Rodrygo, it was just the beginning of his adventure in Europe.
6. He is the First player born in the 21st century to score in the Champions League
Rodrygo’s arrival on the European stage was nothing short of spectacular. In just his second Champions League appearance, he made history as the first player born in the 21st century to score in the prestigious tournament.
At only 18 years old, his goal against Galatasaray was a moment of pure brilliance that had fans buzzing worldwide. It wasn’t just a goal—it was a statement that Rodrygo was a player to watch, someone capable of changing the game with his flair and composure under pressure.
7. His father, Eric Batista de Goes, was a professional footballer
Rodrygo’s footballing journey is deeply rooted in his family, particularly in his father, Eric Batista de Goes, who himself was a professional footballer. As a right-back who played in Brazil’s Série B, Eric saw the game through a different lens and knew what it took to succeed.
He didn’t just teach Rodrygo about football—he instilled in him a mentality to push through challenges and chase his dreams. Even before Rodrygo was born, Eric predicted his son would follow in his footsteps, and as we now know, he was absolutely right.
8. He enjoys playing PlayStation and basketball
Off the pitch, Rodrygo is just like any other young guy—he loves to unwind with his PlayStation, diving into the world of gaming to escape the intensity of professional football. But it’s not just about the games; he’s also a big fan of basketball.
Whether he’s shooting hoops with friends or enjoying a match on TV, his love for the sport shows his natural competitiveness and ability to enjoy different challenges. Gaming and basketball give him the perfect balance, allowing him to switch gears and keep things fun and relaxed outside of football.
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