Rodrigo Moreno Machado, commonly known as Rodrigo, was born on March 6, 1991, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He showed immense talent for soccer at a young age, and his family recognized his potential early on. When Rodrigo was a teenager, he made the bold decision to move to Spain in pursuit of a professional soccer career.
Upon arriving in Spain, Rodrigo joined the youth academy of Celta de Vigo, where he honed his skills and developed his playing style. His hard work and dedication paid off, as he quickly rose through the ranks and caught the attention of top clubs in the country.
After impressing scouts with his performances at Celta de Vigo, Rodrigo signed with Portuguese club Benfica in 2010. He wasted no time in making an impact, becoming an integral part of the team and helping them secure several championships, including the Primeira Liga and Taca da Liga titles in 2014.
One of Rodrigo's most memorable moments with Benfica came in 2015 when he was named Man of the Match in a crucial victory against Rio Ave F.C., which sealed Benfica's fifth title in seven years in the Portuguese League Cup. His exceptional skill on the field and commitment to the team solidified his reputation as a top-class striker.
Rodrigo's talent and hard work did not go unnoticed on the international stage. In 2013, he was a key player in the Spanish Under-21 squad that was named the UEFA Euro Under-21 Team of the Tournament. His stellar performances and ability to score crucial goals helped Spain dominate the competition and emerge victorious.
With his cousins Rafinha and Thiago Alcantara also representing Spain at the international level, Rodrigo's family has a proud tradition of producing top-tier soccer talent. The Alcantara brothers have enjoyed successful careers, and Rodrigo's achievements have further solidified the family's legacy in the sport.
In 2015, Rodrigo made the move to Valencia, where he continued to excel and showcase his skills on the field. As a key player for the team, he played an instrumental role in their success and helped Valencia secure important victories in La Liga and other competitions.
Teaming up with fellow talented players like Andre Gomes at Valencia, Rodrigo formed strong partnerships on the field and contributed to the team's overall success. His technical ability, goal-scoring prowess, and versatility as a striker have made him a valuable asset for Valencia and a fan favorite among supporters.
Throughout his career, Rodrigo Moreno Machado has proven himself to be a formidable force in the world of soccer. His dedication, passion for the sport, and desire to continually improve have set him apart as a truly exceptional player. As he continues to make his mark in the sport, fans and critics alike eagerly await to see what the future holds for this talented Brazilian-born striker.