Xabi Alonso Explains Rodrygo’s Absence in Real Madrid’s Debut
Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso clarified that it was his decision to leave Rodrygo without minutes in the 1-0 victory against Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabéu. This situation arises amid rumors of possible transfers of the player to Premier League clubs. Rodrygo, 24 years old, remained on the bench throughout the match, corresponding to the start of LaLiga for Real Madrid, which has intensified speculation about his possible departure. It is rumored that several Premier League clubs, including Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester City, have shown interest in the Brazilian striker. Alonso, who took over before the Club World Cup to replace Carlo Ancelotti, downplayed Rodrygo’s lack of playing time, stating that he still counts on the Brazilian striker for the time being.
Rodrygo’s situation has gone from being an undisputed star to a figure under scrutiny in a few months. The forward, who scored two goals in 60 seconds against Manchester City in 2022, is now relegated with the appearance of the trio Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham. Real Madrid paid Santos around 54 million euros in 2018 to secure the services of Rodrygo, who at that time was a promising 17-year-old. The transfer was considered a success after his rapid adaptation to European football, but now the situation is different. The price is set by demand, and a source indicated that Madrid would ask for around 100 million euros to negotiate his transfer, with a minimum fee set at 80 million euros. Rodrygo’s situation has sparked a series of reports in the Spanish media about his possible new destination. Sources suggest that most of these are unfounded rumors and that there have been no official negotiations with other clubs. Real Madrid has also stated that no offer has been made to date. Less than a month until the transfer market closes, the situation could change, and sources suggest that, if Rodrygo leaves, a transfer to the Premier League would be the most attractive option for him. The match was played on Tuesday instead of the previous weekend, along with the rest of the opening matches, because Madrid’s players needed more rest after their participation in the Club World Cup. Madrid’s attempt to further delay their debut was denied by the league. Kylian Mbappé, in his second season with Real Madrid, led the team to a 1-0 victory. The goal gave Alonso a victorious debut in his first full season with the club. Madrid controlled possession, more than 70%, but had difficulties breaking Osasuna’s defense at first, threatening with some long-range shots. “There were positive aspects, starting with the result,” said Alonso. “We still need some things that will give us stability to continue progressing.”“It was just one game. If in three months he’s still not getting these minutes, then it’s different,” said Alonso. “Nothing is happening. The Club World Cup was a different context due to the competition it was. But this was just one game. I think we can leave the Club World Cup behind and what really counts is this season. And of course I’m counting on Rodrygo. It’s just one game, we don’t have to read too much into the future.”
Xabi Alonso
