Arsenal aren’t the only Premier League title contender after Rodrygo Goes

Arsenal fans have grown increasingly optimistic about the club’s chances of landing Rodrygo Goes, the Real Madrid star who seems to be edging closer to the Santiago Bernabéu exit. The Gunners have long admired the Brazilian forward, especially as they look to upgrade the left wing and build a more potent attack for another Premier League title challenge.

But now, that pursuit has serious competition. According to ESPN Brasil, Rodrygo’s agents are currently in contact with Arsenal, Manchester City, and PSG, three of Europe’s most powerful and ambitious clubs.

That’s a sharp reminder that Rodrygo’s talent still commands respect, even after a disappointing 2023/24 season.

A surprising decline at Real Madrid

The writing has been on the wall for Rodrygo ever since Kylian Mbappé and Endrick joined Real Madrid. Though he was still a regular in the rotation, Rodrygo’s role clearly diminished under Carlo Ancelotti, particularly after a breakout 2022/23 campaign when he was one of the club’s most clutch players — including a legendary brace against Manchester City in the Champions League semifinal.

But instead of building on that season, Rodrygo regressed in 2024/25. He looked lost for long stretches, struggled to influence games from the right wing, and saw his confidence drop. Still just 24 years old in 2025, his dip was unexpected — but not irreversible.

And that’s precisely why clubs like Arsenal, City, and PSG are circling.

Arsenal want a left winger, and Rodrygo is ideal

Gabriel Martinelli has plateaued in recent seasons and failed to deliver the end product expected of a starting left winger in a title-challenging team. Arsenal know that position needs a spark, and Rodrygo, when used on the left side cutting in on his stronger right foot, is far more dangerous than he’s been on the right at Madrid.

Mikel Arteta is a known admirer, and Arsenal have made the most consistent push among the three clubs. The Gunners want a goal-scoring winger who can interchange with Bukayo Saka, and Rodrygo’s intelligence, ball control, and killer instinct make him an obvious target. He could be the final third spark Arsenal have lacked in the big games that ultimately cost them the Premier League in each of the last three seasons.

But Manchester City and PSG are back in the race

It’s not surprising to see Manchester City reappear as a suitor. Pep Guardiola has long respected Rodrygo’s game and even targeted him before his breakout season. City are reportedly in the market for a more technically elite wide forward. Rodrygo fits Guardiola’s ideal winger profile far better — clean on the ball, press-resistant, tactically sharp.

PSG, meanwhile, have the financial muscle to outbid anyone and offer a starring role, though Ligue 1 might not be the most tempting sporting project for a player like Rodrygo.

The race is open — but Arsenal have a strong hand

Rodrygo may have lost his place in Madrid’s plans, but his talent is undeniable. Arsenal remain the most consistent and logical destination, offering him a defined role and a system that suits his strengths. But with City and PSG in the mix, this will be a test of ambition and persuasion.

Arsenal want to level up. If they can land Rodrygo, they might just leap to the top.