Rodrygo to Arsenal transfer twist as Xabi Alonso provides 'worrying' Real Madrid update

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Xabi Alonso has provided an update on Rodrygo's future at Real Madrid. The 24-year-old winger, who has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League this summer, was an unused substitute in Los Blancos' opening clash of the new La Liga campaign on Tuesday night.

Rodrygo watched from the sidelines as Kylian Mbappe fired the Spanish giants to a 1-0 win over Osasuna. The 26-year-old striker, who was brought down inside the box by Juan Cruz, beat Sergio Herrera from 12 yards shortly after the break.

Midway through the second half, Alonso replaced Brahim Diaz and Trent Alexander-Arnold with Franco Mastantuono and Dani Carvajal. In the final quarter of an hour or so, the Real Madrid boss overlooked Rodrygo again.

Gonzalo García came on for Vinicius Junior before Dani Ceballos replaced Arda Guler. Despite having five substitutions at his disposal, Alonso only used four, casting further doubt over the Brazil international's future.

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After the game, the former Liverpool midfielder was asked why Rodrygo didn't make an appearance. Speaking to Spanish reporters, as quoted by the club website, Alonso said: "Nothing's happening. The Club World Cup was a different context because of the competition.

"Today is just a game, we can put the rest behind us. What counts is this season, and of course, I'm counting on Rodrygo. It's just a game; we shouldn't read too far into the future.

"If he gets those minutes in three months, I'll be able to give you a more certain answer. Today was a matter of circumstances during the game and my decisions."

On Mastantuono, who Alonso preferred off the bench to Rodrygo, the Real Madrid boss said: "I already saw that he could contribute, and he's had some good minutes. He hasn't been able to train with us, but he's been preparing.

"He was really looking forward to it, and sometimes the emotional aspect outweighs the hard work. He's had a good impact, and it's good news that he's made his debut."

Speaking to reporters ahead of the Osasuna clash, Alonso insisted that Rodrygo is part of his plans. The Spaniard said: "There are always rumours during summer, but he looks good to me, he's part of my plans.

(Image: Photo by Antonio Villalba/Real Madrid via Getty Images)

"I want every one of the players here to be feeling part of the team, doing their bit, and performing at 100%. That's all I'm concerned with right now."

On the competition for places, Alonso added: "I know that competition is fantastic, and I love having two players who can play in every position, guys who want to show why they deserve their place.

"Then it's down to me to make the choice. Sometimes, I'll have to share out the minutes, but I think there are lots of positions that are very well stocked."

(Image: Photo by Stephen Nadler/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images)

Earlier this summer, football.london understood that Arsenal were interested in signing Rodrygo, but any move would have been complicated. The Gunners' reluctance to submit a bid for the Real Madrid star left the door wide open for other teams – like Manchester City, who have recently been linked – to swoop in.

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