Xabi Alonso reveals reason for benching Rodrygo in Real Madrid's LaLiga opener

The Brazilian has been linked with many Premier League teams.

In light of transfer rumours to Premier League teams, Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso stated that he chose to bench Rodrygo during the team’s 1-0 victory over Osasuna at the Bernabéu on Tuesday.

The 24-year-old Rodrygo stayed on the bench during Madrid’s LaLiga opener, which heightened rumours of a potential transfer. According to reports, a number of Premier League teams have shown interest, including Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool.

Alonso reveals why he benched the Brazilian vs Osasuna

Alonso, who replaced Carlo Ancelotti prior to the FIFA Club World Cup, played down Rodrygo’s lack of playing time, stating that he still relies on the Brazil forward for the time being.

“It was only a match. If in three months he still isn’t getting these minutes, then it’s different,” Alonso said.

“Nothing’s going on. The Club World Cup was a different context because of the competition that it was. But this was just one game.

“I think we can leave the Club World Cup behind us and what really counts is this season. And of course I count on Rodrygo. It’s just one game, we don’t have to read too much in the future.

“If he has those [lack of] minutes in three months, then I can tell you with more certainty. But, today was the circumstances of the match and my decisions [not to play him].”

What else about Rodrygo’s situation at the club?

In a matter of months, Rodrygo has transformed from an undeniable starter to losing his place in the starting eleven. The forward, who led one of Real Madrid’s most illustrious comebacks in 2022 by scoring two goals in 60 seconds against Manchester City, is currently shelved due to the rise of Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Jude Bellingham.

In 2018, Madrid paid Santos approximately €54 million (today’s $62 million) to acquire Rodrygo, a promising 17-year-old at the time. After he quickly adjusted to the European game, the move was deemed successful. But ESPN reveals that things have changed since then.

According to ESPN, Madrid would seek to negotiate his move for about €100 million ($116 million), with a minimum of €80 million ($93 million).

Because of his predicament, Rodrygo’s potential new club has been the subject of numerous reports in the Spanish media. There haven’t been any formal talks with other clubs, and most of these speculations are baseless. Additionally, Real Madrid stated that no offer has been made as of yet.

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