Rodrygo apologizes for his red card against Benfica: the Brazilian comes under criticism after the defeat

In a night already defined by a crushing 4-2 defeat for Real Madrid in Lisbon, Rodrygo Goes became the unlikely protagonist of a moment that left the "Madridismo" in shock. For the first time since joining the first team in 2019, the Brazilian forward saw a red card—a career-first that will have dire consequences for Álvaro Arbeloa’s European plans. The suspension not only strips Madrid of their most creative spark for the first leg of the Champions League playoffs but also highlights the growing tension within a squad under immense pressure.

The incident occurred in the dying embers of the match at the Estádio da Luz. In the 96th minute, Italian referee Davide Massa issued an unusual double booking to Rodrygo in a matter of seconds. Frustrated by what he perceived as blatant time-wasting by the Benfica players, Rodrygo launched into a heated, "wrathful" protest. While Rodrygo is typically known for his calm demeanor, his choice of words and aggressive body language left Massa with no choice but to show him the red card.

This loss of control is a statistical anomaly for Rodrygo, who had played over 200 matches for the club without a single dismissal. He wasn't alone in his misery, however, as teammate Raúl Asencio was also suspended, leaving the Real Madrid defense and attack severely depleted for the upcoming rematch.

Shortly after the final whistle, Rodrygo took to social media to address the incident. In a message of raw honesty, the Brazilian star took full responsibility for his actions.

"I lost control in a moment of extreme frustration," Rodrygo admitted. "This behavior is completely uncharacteristic of how I view myself as a player and as a professional. I want to apologize to the fans, my teammates, the coaching staff, and the institution."

He reaffirmed his commitment to the club, acknowledging that the "sporting consequences" of his absence in the playoff first leg would be a heavy burden for the team to carry.

The context of the dismissal makes it even more painful. This was Rodrygo’s return to action after missing the previous four matches due to physical discomfort. It was also his official debut under the management of Álvaro Arbeloa, as his last appearance had been in the Spanish Supercup final against FC Barcelona.

Entering the pitch in the 55th minute, Rodrygo was supposed to be the "X-factor" that turned the game around. Instead, his return became a nightmare, ending in a walk of shame that leaves Arbeloa with a massive tactical headache for the return to Lisbon in February.

Despite the European setback, Real Madrid must turn the page quickly. Rodrygo is expected to return to the starting lineup this weekend in La Liga against Rayo Vallecano. This domestic fixture represents an immediate chance for redemption—a way for Rodrygo to prove that the Lisbon incident was a one-time lapse in judgment rather than a change in character. For Arbeloa, getting the "real" Rodrygo back is essential as the season enters its most decisive month.