“I wanted to stay”: Real Madrid star reveals why he turned down Liverpool offer

Real Madrid forward Rodrygo has revealed why he failed to join Liverpool during his time at Santos despite the club offering him a good deal.

Rodrygo joined Real Madrid from Santos in the summer of 2019 for €45 million and has been able to cement a place for himself in the team.

Speaking ahead of Real Madrid’s Champions League clash against Man City, Rodrygo noted that the decision to shun Liverpool was personal.

The 23-year-old forward noted that the Liverpool deal didn’t close because he didn’t want to leave Santos for Anfield.

“I wanted to stay at Santos even though the offer was very good. The pathway they promised me would also have been very good for my career. I was going to finish my studies in England to prepare for European football, Rodrygo said.

“It had always been my dream to play in Europe,” he added. Everything was very good, but my desire spoke louder. I wanted to stay at Santos and make a bit of history at the club. And that’s what happened.

“I was able to fulfil my dream of playing for Santos. But it’s true, I almost went to Liverpool.”

Despite not making the move to Liverpool, Rodrygo has grown to become one of the most adored youngsters in the world. He has since become a key player for Real Madrid, making over 200 appearances across a productive four-year spell.