Xabi Alonso publicly backs Real Madrid’s most disgruntled player

In the chessboard of elite football, man-management is often more important than tactics — especially when it comes to players like Rodrygo Goes, who walk the frustrating line between starter and super-sub. The Brazilian forward isn’t just one of Real Madrid’s most talented attackers; he’s also one of their most unsettled. And now, with the summer transfer window heating up, Xabi Alonso is already playing a delicate game.

Rodrygo is not starting regularly under Alonso, who has only just taken over as Real Madrid’s new manager. It’s not a performance issue — far from it. Rodrygo has the technical quality, movement, and Champions League pedigree to start for almost any club in Europe. But Madrid’s attacking depth, especially after the arrival of Kylian Mbappé, means minutes will be scarce, and rotation is inevitable.

This lack of minutes hasn’t gone unnoticed. Arsenal and Chelsea have both been linked with summer bids, with Arsenal showing the clearest intent, targeting him as a dynamic solution for their left-wing role. Arsenal, in particular, is prepared to structure a multistage €80 million bid, viewing Rodrygo as a ready-made upgrade in wide area. Real Madrid reportedly value Rodrygo around €90 million to help recruit the midfield engine Alonso wants

And so, with the pressure mounting, Alonso has opted for a public olive branch:

“Rodrygo is going to be important for us,” he said. “In these kinds of tournaments, the starters are just as decisive as the ones who come off the bench. I think he’s doing well, he’s training well. Whether he plays is my decision.”

It’s a soft-power move from a manager who understands the politics of Madrid better than most. Rather than dismiss speculation or downplay Rodrygo’s role, Alonso leaned into it — acknowledging the player’s value, reinforcing his importance, and reminding him, subtly, that trust is being extended even if the starting XI doesn’t always reflect it.

Rodrygo, by all accounts, has remained professional. But the ambition is there, and so is the restlessness. He knows he’s good enough to start for a top-tier club — and other teams know it, too. If Madrid aren’t careful, they risk losing a unique attacking talent right as he’s entering his prime.

Alonso’s quote may seem routine, but it signals something deeper. It’s a manager actively trying to smooth things over, to keep the player bought in. Because if Rodrygo Goes, Real Madrid will be losing far more than just squad depth — they’ll be losing one of the most clutch, versatile attackers in Europe.

And Arsenal will be standing by with open arms.