Xabi Alonso explains leaving Rodrygo on bench in Real Madrid's La Liga opener vs Osasuna as Man City make final decision on transfer swoop for €100m-rated forward

While Brahim Díaz was preferred on the right wing for Madrid’s season opener, head coach Alonso opted for youth, bringing on Franco Mastantuono instead of giving Rodrygo a chance to impress for the final 20 minutes. 

After the win against Osasuna, Alonso was asked why Rodrygo failed to make an appearance, but his response did little to clarify the situation. The Madrid manager appeared unmoved by the growing questions surrounding the winger’s absence, offering a curt reply during his press conference.

"Rodrygo? Nothing is happening," Alonso said. "I count on Rodrygo, of course. It’s just a game. This was my decision."

Rodrygo’s lack of minutes hasn’t gone unnoticed in the transfer market, and various rumours have surfaced about potential moves. However, Real Madrid have yet to receive any formal offers for the Brazilian forward, and it’s widely believed that the club’s €100 million (£86m/$116m) asking price is too steep for most potential suitors. Although Manchester City previously showed interest in signing Rodrygo, the club has since decided to keep Savinho, ruling out any possibility of a move for the Brazilian.

Meanwhile, Guillem Balague suggests that Rodrygo may not be particularly keen on the idea of a proposed move to Newcastle United, even if Madrid lower their demands to €60m-70m (£52m-60m/$70m-81.5m) closer to deadline day. Arsenal have been mentioned in passing, but reports indicate that no official approach has been made from the Gunners.

Alonso’s tenure so far at Real Madrid has seen Rodrygo start just once in eight matches, a statistic that doesn’t bode well for the player’s future at the club. His total playing time under Alonso amounts to just 121 minutes out of a possible 720, a minuscule figure that highlights his diminishing importance in the team.

With Rodrygo's future still up in the air at Real Madrid, the next few weeks could prove crucial for the Brazilian’s career. As Madrid prepare for their upcoming match against Real Oviedo, the pressure is mounting for Rodrygo to seize any opportunity he gets.