Brazilian forward, Rodrygo has claimed that his versatility might have cost him a nomination for the prestigious Ballon d'Or after being left off the 30-man shortlist despite a stellar season with Real Madrid.
Rodrygo, who played a key role in helping his team win both La Liga and the Champions League last season, expressed disappointment at his omission.
In 51 appearances for the club, he scored 17 goals and provided nine assists.
While several of his Real Madrid teammates, including Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Jr., Dani Carvajal, Federico Valverde, Antonio Rudiger, and the now-retired Toni Kroos, earned nominations, Rodrygo did not make the list.
Kylian Mbappé, who recently joined Real Madrid from Paris Saint-Germain, was also among the nominees.
Rodrygo said: "I was upset, I think I deserved it. I don't want to belittle the players who are there, I think they deserve it also.
"But I think I had a place in the 30. It was a surprise but there is not much I can do as I'm not the one who decides these things."
Rodrygo acknowledged that his versatility has hindered his development, particularly with the Brazilian national team, as they prepare to face Paraguay in a World Cup qualifier on Tuesday.
Reports suggest that his position in the Real Madrid squad has come under scrutiny since the arrival of Kylian Mbappé, though Coach Carlo Ancelotti has consistently included him in a three-man forward line this season.
Ancelotti often deploys Rodrygo as a second striker, but the Brazilian is capable of playing on the right wing, left-wing, or even as a centre forward.
"Often, I'm just filling spaces," Rodrygo added. "Is someone missing there? Put Rodrygo in. Is someone missing on the right? Rodrygo. Is someone missing as number nine? Rodrygo. That's it.. It may get in my way a little, but I'm a team player."
The winner of the award will be announced at a ceremony in Paris on October 28th.
Meanwhile, the Madrid forward scored the only goal of the game in a 1-0 victory over Ecuador this weekend.
Rodrygo made a recent social media post, publishing a series of photos of himself lifting trophies with Real Madrid, accompanied by a laughing emoji, which he admitted was intended to make fun of his Ballon d'Or snub.
"I made a somewhat mocking post,” he said.
The Madrid forward also said: "Now there's not much to say. Everyone knows my indignation. Everyone [has supported me], both in the national team and at Real Madrid. People sent messages."
