Xabi Alonso Hints Rodrygo's Real Madrid Future During Presentation

During a press conference, Alonso was asked about Rodrygo's future at the club and whether he was in the manager's plans ahead of next season. Alonso slightly put an end to rumors of the Brazilian star leaving this summer.

Xabi Alonso: "Rodrygo is a Real Madrid player. And all of the players who play for Real Madrid, I will have a conversation with them. Because they deserve it, because we need it. Because we need to know each other. Rodrygo is a spectacular player and we will need him."

Rodrygo is linked to Premier League clubs

The Brazilian winger was rumored to be unhappy at Real Madrid due to his minutes and not playing in his preferred position. As Real Madrid finished a poor season, rumors suggest that the club would sell players like Rodrygo in order to improve the squad. 

Over the past few weeks, clubs like Chelsea, Liverpool, and Arsenal were reportedly interested in signing Rodrygo this summer. Real Madrid's new manager, Xabi Alonso, is rumored to have the final say in the future of Rodrygo at the club.

Alonso will likely decide the FIFA Club World Cup when he gets to manage the squad for the first time ahead of the new season in mid-August. Rodrygo's last game for Real Madrid this season was in late April, in the Copa del Rey final against FC Barcelona.

Xabi Alonso's Expectations at Real Madrid

Alonso mentions his desire to improve the team as soon as possible. The Spanish manager suggests signing new players, but also mentions the quality of players he has at his disposal.

Xabi Alonso: "I want to build a great team, we have top players. We can achieve great things. I want people to say: this is my Real Madrid, when they watch us. In my view, our football must be proactive. We have to control the game."

Real Madrid will play in three weeks, at the FIFA Club World Cup, but some of Alonso's players will not rest. Players like Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo, and Kylian Mbappe will play for the national teams in two weeks during an international break.

Alonso's first game as Real Madrid coach will be against Al Hilal on June 18 at the Hard Rock Stadium. They then take on Pachuca on June 22 at the Bank of America Stadium. June 26 is when their final group stage match, which is against RB Salzburg at the Lincoln Financial Field.