Real Madrid forward Rodrygo
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal are reportedly monitoring Rodrygo Goes’ uncertain situation at Real Madrid, as fresh doubts have emerged over the Brazilian forward’s future following his surprise omission in Los Blancos’ FIFA Club World Cup win over Pachuca.
Rodrygo, 24, remained on the bench throughout Real Madrid’s 3–1 victory, with manager Xabi Alonso opting not to use him despite deploying all five available substitutions, including a runout for teenager Víctor Muñoz. The decision raised eyebrows among fans and reignited transfer speculation, withMarca claiming the “Rodrygo case” is once again wide open.
The forward, once dubbed the “child of comebacks” for his clutch Champions League performances, is reportedly struggling to adapt to Alonso’s tactical demands. Despite starting in the Club World Cup opener against Al Hilal where he assisted Gonzalo García’s goal, Rodrygo was dropped for Arda Güler in the following match, further deepening concerns about his standing in the squad.
READ MORE: Former defender Arsenal to snub Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres for superior striker signing
According to Marca, the Brazilian is finding it difficult to carve out a clear role in Alonso’s system, especially with rising star Güler gaining prominence and Argentine prodigy Franco Mastantuono expected to arrive this summer. A shift in formation could push Rodrygo even further down the pecking order, while his recent performances have reportedly lacked confidence and sharpness.
Arsenal target Rodrygo
Real Madrid star Rodrygo (Image credit: Getty Images)
Rodrygo endured a difficult end to the 2024/25 season under Carlo Ancelotti, having been substituted at halftime in the Copa del Rey final defeat to Barcelona in April before missing the remainder of the campaign through injury. His absence from Brazil’s national team under Ancelotti, now in charge of the Seleção, further highlighted the challenges he’s faced both mentally and physically. The CBF publicly cited a need for the player to “recover his physical and mental tone.”
Despite some promising moments in training under Alonso, Rodrygo’s latest snub against Pachuca has cast renewed doubt on his long-term future at the Bernabéu, something that could work in Arsenal’s favour.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
The Gunners have emerged as leading contenders for the forward’s signature. According to reports in Spain, Rodrygo’s representatives have held informal talks with Arsenal, and the player is said to be intrigued by Mikel Arteta’s vision. Sources suggest the Brazilian is particularly keen on operating from the left wing, a role that suits his strengths and could be available in North London as Arsenal continue their push for Premier League glory.
Arteta is believed to be a strong admirer of Rodrygo’s versatility and ability to produce in key moments. Arsenal’s interest appears to be intensifying, especially as Real Madrid prepare for Mastantuono’s integration and continue to build around high-profile stars like Vinícius Jr., Jude Bellingham, and Kylian Mbappé.
🚨BREAKING: The Rodrygo case has changed with even more fronts to contend with.
With Arda Guler exploding and the arrival of Franco Mastantuono, the situation has changed.
The player did not even warm up in the second-half.
[@marca] pic.twitter.com/0TsBfSCMnK
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) June 23, 2025
Since joining Real Madrid from Santos in 2019, Rodrygo has scored 68 goals in 255 appearances, earning a reputation for his work ethic and big-game mentality. But his quiet personality and perceived inconsistency have often seen him overshadowed by louder names within the squad.
“Not making noise,” Marca notes, may have contributed to Rodrygo’s fragile status at the club, despite his undeniable quality. Speaking earlier in the Club World Cup, Alonso acknowledged the player’s recent struggles: “I know the end of the season wasn’t easy for him, but he took important time to reset… I see him with desire.”
However, the manager’s latest team selection paints a different picture and one that could prompt a change of scenery for Rodrygo.
With Arsenal still searching for an attacking spark to complement their title ambitions, a move for Rodrygo could accelerate quickly if Madrid give the green light to sell. Whether the Brazilian chooses to fight for his place in the Spanish capital or embrace a new challenge in North London, the coming weeks could be decisive.
For now, the “Rodrygo case” remains unresolved but Arsenal are watching closely.
NEXT ARTICLE: Spanish club rejects opportunity to sign Arsenal star this summer