Xabi Alonso Backs Rodrygo Amid Transfer Speculation

Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso says Rodrygo is still part of his plans. The Brazilian winger was left out of the team for their first La Liga match.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Real Madrid started their 2025-26 La Liga season with a 1-0 win over Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabeu. The big surprise was Rodrygo not playing. Alonso said it was a tactical choice. He explained, “I count on Rodrygo, of course, it’s just a game. This was my decision.” Despite rumors of Rodrygo leaving, Alonso said “nothing is happening” with his future, reaffirming that he remains part of the team plans as reported. The coach also stated he wants all players to stay committed and focused.

RODRYGO’S POSITION AND THE TEAM’S START

People have been talking about Rodrygo this summer. There are stories that other top clubs want to sign him. Last season, he was important, scoring 16 goals and assisting eight times in all competitions as Real Madrid failed to win any title. However, he had a tough 2024–25 season, scoring only once in his last 25 games. This was clear during the Club World Cup, where he played less than usual, averaging only 16 minutes per game. Real Madrid had an unsuccessful season, finishing as La Liga runner-ups, and now, they want to win again. They started this season with a tough win over Osasuna, who finished 10th last year and seem set for a mid-table finish again.

WHAT COMES NEXT FOR REAL MADRID AND RODRYGO

Real Madrid will play Oviedo next, a team that got promoted from La Liga 2. Madrid are at the top of La Liga after one match, level on points with Barcelona and Athletic Bilbao, among other teams. Alonso is still working on his best team, and new players like Franco Mastantuono and Kylian Mbappé are joining the squad. Rodrygo hopes to get back in the starting team as the season goes on. There’s a lot of competition for places in Madrid’s attack. If Rodrygo plays well and regains his spot, he could be important again in Real Madrid’s quest for more trophies this season.