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New Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso has hinted that Brazilian winger Rodrygo will remain at the Santiago Bernabéu next season, dealing a potential blow to Arsenal’s summer transfer ambitions.
Alonso, who was officially unveiled as Real Madrid’s new manager on Sunday, addressed the media for the first time on Monday afternoon following the announcement of his three-year contract, which runs from June 1, 2025, until June 30, 2028. His tenure will begin in time to lead Los Blancos at the FIFA Club World Cup, which kicks off on June 14.
Speaking at his inaugural press conference, Alonso was asked about the future of Rodrygo, who has been the subject of intense transfer speculation. Reports have linked the 24-year-old with a move to the Premier League, with Arsenal reportedly leading the chase for his signature.
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However, Alonso appeared to shut down those rumours, saying: “Rodrygo? He is a Real Madrid player. He is a spectacular player and we will need him.”
Rodrygo (Image credit: Getty Images)Rodrygo, who joined Real Madrid from Santos in 2019 for €45 million (£37.9m), has developed into a key figure in the squad, despite often operating in the shadow of more high-profile teammates like Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior. He has contributed 68 goals and 50 assists in 267 appearances for the club and has earned 33 caps for Brazil.
Nevertheless, the winger endured a mixed campaign last season, prompting speculation about a possible exit. According to Sky Sports Germany, Arsenal have opened talks with Rodrygo’s representatives and view him as a top target to bolster their attacking options. Manchester City, Manchester United, and Liverpool have also reportedly shown interest.
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Gunners manager Mikel Arteta, speaking ahead of Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Southampton on the final day of the Premier League season, stopped short of addressing the Rodrygo links directly. But he did acknowledge the club’s need for attacking reinforcements.
“If you want to win titles, you have to be the best in the market,” Arteta said. “The teams that win have the best players. It’s a matter of pride. It shows we’ve brought the club to a level where people expect us to challenge for trophies. What is clear, with the amount of injuries that we had in the front line, is that we need a goal threat and we need firepower.”
Alonso’s comments suggest that Real Madrid are not currently prepared to part ways with Rodrygo, meaning Arsenal and other suitors may have to look elsewhere – or prepare for a drawn-out transfer battle.
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