Rodrygo's 2027 return timeline revealed after devastating knee injury

Real Madrid forward Rodrygo will miss nearly a full year of action after suffering a severe knee injury in March 2026, with his return now targeted for early 2027. The Brazilian winger tore his ACL and lateral meniscus during a La Liga match against Getafe, ending his season and dashing his World Cup dreams.

What happened during the injury?

Rodrygo entered the game as a second-half substitute in Real Madrid’s 1-0 loss to Getafe on 2 March 2026. Despite feeling pain, he finished the match before scans revealed the extent of the damage. Surgery followed on 10 March, performed by Dr. Manuel Leyes, but the dual injury required an extended recovery period.

Why it matters for Rodrygo and Real Madrid

The timing couldn’t have been worse. Rodrygo missed key Champions League clashes against Manchester City and Bayern Munich, as well as the decisive *El Clasico* in La Liga. His absence also forced him to withdraw from Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad, a bitter blow for the 25-year-old.

What comes next for Rodrygo?

With Jose Mourinho now managing Real Madrid, Rodrygo will miss the entire first half of the 2026/27 season. If rehabilitation progresses smoothly, he could return to partial team training in early 2027. Before the injury, Rodrygo had contributed three goals and six assists in 27 appearances during a challenging campaign.

For now, the Brazilian remains focused on recovery at Real Madrid’s facilities while his teammates prepare for the new season.