Xabi Alonso drops major hint over Rodrygo's future as Real Madrid forward is linked with move to Arsenal

Rodrygo endured a difficult end to the 2024-25 season at the Santiago Bernabéu, falling out of favour during the latter stages of the campaign. That has opened the door to potential suitors, including Arsenal, who are monitoring his situation closely.

Even if Rodrygo were open to a transfer, Real Madrid would not let him leave without securing a significant fee. Spanish media outlets claim the La Liga giants would demand in the region of €90 million (£77m/$103.6m) to sanction his departure, a valuation that could test Arsenal’s financial flexibility.

Ahead of Real Madrid’s Club World Cup opener in the United States, Alonso addressed questions regarding Rodrygo’s role and effectively shut down any possibility of a transfer away from the Spanish capital.

“I know what had happened in the final stretch, it was not easy for him,” Alonso said. "He took some time to reset his head and I see him wanting to enjoy and contribute.”

Further fuelling the notion that Rodrygo is not actively pursuing an exit, the forward recently posted a series of training photos to his social media accounts. Accompanied by a simple caption reading “happy,” the images gave fans a glimpse of a relaxed and engaged player, seemingly at ease under his new manager.

Rodrygo is currently participating in the revamped Club World Cup with Real Madrid, hosted in the United States. After a 1-1 draw in the opening fixture against Al-Hilal, attention turns to a high-stakes encounter against Mexican side Pachuca on Sunday.