Brazil's Rodrygo reports steady injury recovery and praises Ancelotti at World Cup interview

Brazilian striker Rodrygo, currently with Real Madrid, spoke in New York about his recovery after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament and outer meniscus in March. He said the surgery was successful and expects to return to play by the end of 2026, noting, “I’m very well. I’m happy with my evolution, each day I feel better,” while acknowledging the process requires patience and that some days are “very good” and others “very bad.”

Rodrygo also praised Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti, calling him “a phenomenon” both tactically and in squad management, and expressed hope that the Brazilian public and media will understand his methods better as the team progresses in the World Cup.