IMAGO / PRESSE SPORTS

Media Believe Xabi Alonso Has No Faith in Real Madrid Star

Originally posted on Real Madrid CF on SI
By Jordan Merritt | Last updated Aug 21, 2025 10:42 AM ET

Real Madrid scraped past the opening La Liga game against Osasuna, winning 1-0 at the Santiago Bernabeu. All four new signings got on the field, but one of Los Blancos' first-choice players did not. Rodrygo, who has been a regular starter over the last several seasons, saw youngsters Franco Mastantuono and Gonzalo Garcia enter the game in front of him, causing plenty of chat after the game.

Many media outlets believe it was a decision that shows that the Brazilian is not in Xabi Alonso's plans. Premier League clubs have shown interest in the player, and the manager's decision to leave him out could mean he may move on this summer.

'Xabi Alonso Has 'No Faith' in Rodygo

On the Radio Marca show 'Buenas Noches y Buenos Goles' the team discussed what the benching of Rodrygo could mean for his future.

Something's going on here. Yesterday's changes are a clear message from Xabi Alonso, opening the door for him to leave.Adrián Benedicto

The host of the show continued, saying it must have hurt the 24-year-old, seeing players such as Garcia, Mastantuono, and Brahim Diaz getting playing time.

You warm up, you don't go out and you see that Brahim, Mastantuono and Gonzalo are getting minutes. It's not just that Vinicius and Mbappé are blocking you, it's that there are five players ahead of you.Adrián Benedicto

️ “If Savinho leaves, Manchester City will try for Rodrygo” @FabrizioRomano

Watch #DAZNTransfer by Fabrizio Romano live on DAZN Mondays at 8:30pm CEST/2:30pm ET in the link below https://t.co/pXkxniNwF4 pic.twitter.com/IQT5HFv33f
— DAZN Football (@DAZNFootball) August 18, 2025

Rodrygo has been continuously linked with Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester City this summer. However, it did not look like he would depart. The latest decision not to play him against Osasuna has meant those rumours have heated up again. Arsenal look to be out of the race for the Brazilian, but the other two Premier League title chasers still could make a move.

Fans will look to the next game on August 24 against Real Oviedo. If he does not see the field, there will be just a few days until the transfer window shuts on September 1. Could Rodrygo be wearing another shirt after the international break?

This article first appeared on Real Madrid CF on SI and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: