Xabi Alonso Refuses to Sell Rodrygo Despite Rumors He Will Move to Arsenal

Rodrygo Goes has been rumoured to be leaving Real Madrid this summer, having gone through a frustrating period of declining performance. However, the club’s new manager, Xabi Alonso, does not seem to be in favour of the Brazilian international’s departure.

Alonso has seemingly included Rodrygo in his plans for his first season at Real Madrid, but has warned against putting the 24-year-old on the transfer list.

This is a major setback for Arsenal, who were reportedly interested in signing Rodrygo. Mikel Arteta had earmarked him to strengthen his attacking line-up.

Bukayo Saka’s hamstring injury has hindered Arsenal’s performance on the wing for almost four months. Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard have found it difficult to replicate Saka’s attacking performance, particularly in the absence of Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus.

Alonso’s positional change also follows previous reports that he would prefer to play Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappé together up front. It is said that the 43-year-old former Bayer Leverkusen coach will use a formation with two strikers.

Transfer speculation began amid reports that Rodrygo was unhappy with his limited role under Carlo Ancelotti last season, as he was forced to play second fiddle to fellow Madrid stars Vinicius, Mbappé and Jude Bellingham.

Rumours of Rodrygo’s desire to leave grew stronger as he was often played out of position, which made him uncomfortable. However, shortly after the news emerged, the Brazilian winger confirmed that he would be staying in Spain.

He took part in Alonso’s first training session at Valdebebas. While it is yet to be determined what role Rodrygo will play under his new manager, the club may change their minds if they receive a substantial offer.

All eyes will be on Rodrygo’s performance this summer as Los Blancos take part in the Club World Cup. If he is given a prominent role and performs well, this will only serve to strengthen Alonso’s interest in keeping the São Paulo-born player.

Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes has even tried to persuade Rodrygo to move to England, believing that he could take the north London club to the next level.

Losing Rodrygo would be even more painful for Madrid if they were to do so, considering that Nico Williams has reportedly opened the door to a move to Barcelona this summer, meaning that the Blaugrana’s attack would be better than Los Blancos’.