Rodrygo shows Zidane he can play as a No.9

Rodrygo Goes is proving to Zinedine Zidane that he can be a reliable option for Real Madrid as a central striker, as he added to his tally while representing Brazil's U23s.

The youngster has shown his undeniable talent since his arrival at the club in the summer of 2019, mainly coming inside from the left wing, but the teenager is gradually evolving as a well-rounded forward who can cover any of the attacking positions.

His latest call-up to Brazil's U23 squad proved fruitful once again, first scoring against South Korea like a true centre-forward, getting himself on the end of a good move to find the net. In the next game against Egypt, he put in a dazzling display in the final third and again got on the scoresheet.

Real Madrid loanee Reinier also featured in the two games. Brazil lost to South Korea 3-1, but came out 2-1 winners in Cairo against Egypt. With these recent displays in mind, and given that Zidane is crying out for an effective backup option to Karim Benzema in the No.9 role, Rodrygo could emerge as an unlikely yet interesting candidate for the task.

Zidane appears to have given up on Luka Jovic after over a season of below average performances from the bench, while Mariano Diaz continues to be discarded more often than not.