Brazilian forward Rodrygo has reportedly shown signs of frustration due to the limited opportunities he has received under new Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso. According to The Athletic, Rodrygo’s representatives are unhappy with the reduction in his playing time during the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, a crucial tournament where the 24-year-old still has significant potential to develop. This lack of confidence in important matches has led to disappointment within his team.
Recently, rumors about Rodrygo’s possible exit from Real Madrid have intensified, with Arsenal closely monitoring the situation. Many hoped that, under Alonso’s leadership, Rodrygo would have more opportunities to prove his worth. However, the reality has been quite the opposite. At the Club World Cup, Rodrygo started in the opening match against Al Hilal, which ended in a 1-1 draw. However, he was left out of the squad for the 3-1 win over Pachuca and only came on as a 67th-minute substitute against Red Bull Salzburg in a 3-0 victory. Notably, he did not play at all in the recent round of 16 victory over Juventus.
The emergence of young talent Franco Mastantuono further threatens Rodrygo’s starting spot. The Spanish press suggests that if this trend continues, the Brazilian striker could seriously consider leaving the Santiago Bernabéu soon.
Despite these challenges, Xabi Alonso maintains that Rodrygo remains a key part of his plans. Alonso stated:
“For me, Rodrygo is fine and training hard. The decision not to play him recently was purely tactical. He remains very important, and we will need him at the Club World Cup. Rodrygo is a special player and will undoubtedly play an important role in the team.”
Rodrygo joined Real Madrid from Santos in 2019 for approximately €45 million. Since then, he has made 269 appearances, scoring 68 goals and providing 51 assists, demonstrating a consistent contribution over several seasons.
However, under Alonso’s tactical system, which prioritizes players who contribute to defense and help control the midfield, Rodrygo’s style has been less favored. Alonso prefers players with good ball control and a great defensive work rate, qualities Rodrygo is perceived to lack, which has reduced his playing time in favor of others like Guler and Gonzalo García.
Journalist Antonio Romero revealed in El Larguero that Alonso currently considers Rodrygo the last option in attack. Despite public statements about Rodrygo’s importance, his lack of sharpness and form during the Club World Cup has drawn criticism. With the return of Kylian Mbappé and the rise of young players, Rodrygo’s future at Real Madrid is uncertain. If a substantial offer arrives this summer, the club could consider selling him, possibly for around €90 million, according to Fichajes.
In short, Rodrygo’s current situation at Real Madrid is precarious. While Xabi Alonso publicly supports him and recognizes his talent, tactical demands and competition within the squad have limited his role. This has fueled speculation about a possible transfer, with Arsenal among the interested clubs. The coming months will be crucial to determine whether Rodrygo can regain his place or whether he will seek a new challenge elsewhere
