Xabi Alonso Reveals Rodrygo’s Future

When Xabi Alonso was announced as Real Madrid’s new head coach on June 1, many expected a fresh chapter for players like Rodrygo, someone who, under Carlo Ancelotti, had long been a fixture in the starting XI. But just a few weeks into Alonso’s reign, the Brazilian’s place at the club looks uncertain.

It’s about where Rodrygo fits in a Real Madrid team that’s now in a proper system rather than free-flowing attacking football. The resurgence of Arda Guler and the excellence of Mbappé and Vinícius Jr. have given Alonso a headache. Either start all the firepower together or opt for balance, which has been lacking in the Madrid ranks for years now. This has inevitably pushed Rodrygo to the fringes as of now, and it appears both the player and the club are starting to accept that a summer departure could be on the cards if the right offer comes in.

A Role No Longer Guaranteed

Rodrygo made the move to Madrid from Santos back in 2019 for €40 million, and since 2021, he’s been a regular name on the teamsheet. For all his flair and big-game moments, the reality is he’s never fully settled on the right wing, the position he’s been forced to play due to Vinícius.

In the final stretch of last season, it was becoming clear that something wasn’t quite right. Reports from the club suggested Rodrygo’s motivation in training had dipped, and whispers about his long-term future began to grow louder. His father and agent, Eric Goes, has reportedly grown frustrated with how the club has handled his son’s role, especially now that Alonso seems to be planning around a front three that might not include Rodrygo at all.

Despite this, Alonso has not completely shut the door. Shortly after taking charge, he said, “Rodrygo is a spectacular player. We’ll need him this season.” But his actions have told a slightly different story. In Real Madrid’s ongoing Club World Cup campaign, Rodrygo has barely featured. He played just once, in the final group game against Al-Hilal.

He was left on the bench for the knockout tie against Juventus. Yes, he’s been recovering from a minor injury, but being fit enough to make the bench and still not getting minutes has raised concerns. It doesn’t feel like the start Alonso would give to a player he sees as a key part of his system.

Madrid Open For Offers

While Real Madrid’s public stance remains that they aren’t looking to sell Rodrygo, sources close to the club have told The Athletic that they won’t stand in his way if a solid offer arrives. Their internal valuation of the player is believed to be around £70 million ($81 million), though other reports suggest it could rise to as much as €90 million, particularly if there is serious interest.

Arsenal has emerged as the most serious Premier League contender, reportedly viewing Rodrygo as the ideal option for the left side of their attack. Mikel Arteta is believed to be a long-time admirer, and the Gunners have been working behind the scenes to explore a possible deal. However, any move likely hinges on Arsenal freeing up funds, possibly through the sale of Gabriel Martinelli or Leandro Trossard.

Paris Saint-Germain is also in the mix. Reports in the last 24 hours suggest they’ve reignited their interest, with Luis Enrique said to be a fan of Rodrygo’s technical skill and versatility. Bayern Munich and Chelsea have even thrown their name into the hat, eyeing the Brazilian as a potential complement to their existing forward line.

Real Madrid, on the other hand, are already looking at reinforcements elsewhere. Spanish media have suggested that any fee received for Rodrygo would likely go straight into funding a new midfield signing, reportedly one of Alonso’s top priorities as he reshapes the squad in his image.

Rodrygo Keeps It Cool Publicly

Rodrygo himself hasn’t said much about the speculation. On social media, he posted a one-word message, “FELIZ” (happy), alongside a picture of him smiling in training. More recently, when transfer rumors began to heat up, he calmly posted: “Stop making things up.” Still, there is a growing feeling that while he might not be wanting for a move. He is open to it if it means playing regularly again, especially in his preferred position on the left.

From the outside, it looks like a player caught in the middle of a transition. Once a key starter, now down the pecking order in a Real Madrid team undergoing a dramatic evolution. With Mbappé, Vinícius, Bellingham, and Arda Guler all central to Alonso’s plans, Rodrygo may have to choose between staying and fighting for limited minutes or taking the leap to a new club where he gets the game time and attention he deserves.

The coming weeks will be telling. Real Madrid’s Club World Cup run is nearing its end, and serious conversations between Alonso, the club’s top management, and Rodrygo’s camp will follow. If Arsenal, PSG, or any club put the right number on the table, this could be one of the summer’s biggest moves.