Xabi Alonso’s arrival at Madrid changes the narrative on Arsenal target

Real Madrid forward Rodrygo does not look set to leave this summer. He had drifted down the pecking order behind Vinícius Júnior and Kylian Mbappé, and Los Blancos appeared to view him as surplus to requirements. Yet the arrival of new head coach Xabi Alonso has shifted that narrative, according to reports.

A reinvigorated beginning under Alonso

Rodrygo was one of just five senior players present on Alonso’s first day of training, and on the very next day, the Brazilian aired his satisfaction online with a bold “HAPPY” post alongside training pictures. Reports suggest Alonso is paying him special attention already, aiming to restore the 24‑year‑old to his best form. Rodrygo’s form suffered late in the season, partly due to illness, and he was also left out of Brazil’s national squad recently.

Arsenal watch but staying looks likelier

Amid lingering interest from clubs like Arsenal, Rodrygo seems likely to stay. Initial talks with Alonso and early sessions on the training ground have reportedly persuaded him to continue at Madrid, according to Football-Espana. That view is echoed in Spanish media, which say only a major unexpected turn would see him depart this summer.