Xabi Alonso has played down concerns over Rodrygo’s long-term future at Real Madrid, after leaving the winger on the bench during their last Club World Cup fixture.
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA: Rodrygo of Real Madrid C.F. controls the ball during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group H match between Real Madrid CF and Al Hilal at Hard Rock Stadium on June 18, 2025. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images)
Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images
Amid links with a potential summer transfer to Arsenal, Rodrygo was an unused substitute during Real Madrid’s most recent Club World Cup game against Pachuca.
To many, this was an indication that Xabi Alonso doesn’t consider Rodrygo a nailed-on starter for the coming campaign.
After all, Kylian Mbappe was unavailable due to illness and incoming winger signing Franco Mastantuono isn’t yet an option for the new head coach, yet he still couldn’t find a place for Rodrygo on Sunday.
MADRID, SPAIN: Rodrygo of Real Madrid CF waves the fan prior to the LaLiga match between Real Madrid CF and Athletic Club at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on April 20, 2025. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images
On the other hand, it’s just one game, and Alonso told a press conference that he still considers Rodrygo an important member of his squad.
“He looks good, enthusiastic,” Alonso said. “The other day [against Pachuca] was a technical decision (to leave him out) but he’s still important, he’s a special player. I think he’ll play an important part at the Club World Cup.”
The group decider against RB Salzburg on Thursday night (or the early hours of Friday morning back in the UK) will give us another hint at Alonso’s plans for the 24-year-old.
MADRID, SPAIN: Rodrygo of Real Madrid controls the ball whilst under pressure from Mikel Merino of Arsenal during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Quarter Final Second Leg match between Real Madrid C.F. and Arsenal FC at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on April 16, 2025. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images
Cadena SER reported this week that Rodrygo’s entourage have confirmed he’s exploring a Premier League move, and Real Madrid would want €90m (£76.7m) for his transfer.
But Real haven’t yet decided whether they’re planning to sell at all, and they likely won’t make that call until after the Club World Cup. Cadena SER claim that if Rodrygo does leave, it’s not expected to be until August.
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