An unexpected storm is brewing at the Santiago Bernabéu, and it all begins with a shocking decision from incoming Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso. According to multiple sources close to the club, Alonso has given the green light for Brazilian winger Rodrygo Goes to depart the Spanish giants. While the decision itself already raises eyebrows, it’s the identity of his potential replacement that has sent tremors through the Real Madrid dressing room — a powerhouse from Liverpool that even the top brass at Madrid are reportedly cautious about.
Rodrygo, 23, has been an integral part of Real Madrid’s recent success, playing a crucial role in their Champions League and La Liga campaigns. Known for his technical brilliance, versatility, and clutch performances in big matches, his potential departure leaves a gaping hole in the club’s attacking setup. Many fans and pundits saw Rodrygo as a long-term pillar for the club, particularly following the exits of Karim Benzema and Eden Hazard in recent seasons.
However, Xabi Alonso appears to have a different vision for the future. Having proven his tactical prowess at Bayer Leverkusen, Alonso is expected to bring a more structured and intense style of play to Madrid — one that may not fully align with Rodrygo’s fluid and instinctive approach.
But it’s the name on Alonso’s wish list that truly has the Bernabéu buzzing: Darwin Núñez.
The Uruguayan striker, currently playing for Liverpool, has been a polarizing figure since his move from Benfica. While he has shown flashes of brilliance, including stunning goals and powerful performances, he’s also been criticized for inconsistency and discipline issues. Still, his raw power, speed, and physicality make him a formidable force — one that Alonso reportedly believes can be molded into a world-class threat under his guidance.
The idea of Darwin Núñez wearing the white shirt of Madrid has triggered mixed reactions within the club. Some insiders claim that senior players are “concerned” about the locker room dynamics, given Núñez’s fiery temperament and unpredictable on-field behavior. Even members of the club’s leadership are said to be divided — torn between his undeniable potential and the risk he represents in Madrid’s carefully balanced squad.
Financially, the move would also be significant. Liverpool are unlikely to let Núñez go without a hefty transfer fee, especially considering his contract runs until 2028. Madrid, already investing heavily in other areas of the squad, may need to offload more players or restructure contracts to make room for the Uruguayan.
For now, no official announcement has been made. Rodrygo remains a Madrid player, and Núñez is still at Liverpool. But if the reports are to be believed, a major shake-up is looming in the Spanish capital — one that could redefine the club’s attacking identity and send ripples across European football.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Xabi Alonso. Will his bold gamble pay off, or will it backfire spectacularly in the cauldron of expectations that is the Bernabéu? One thing is certain: change is coming, and it won’t be quiet.
