A Real Madrid star has demanded clarifying talks with Xabi Alonso, in light of a potential transfer that could shock the football world.
Alonso officially started as Real Madrid coach on Monday, after taking over from Carlo Ancelotti last month.
He led his first training session ahead of the Club World Cup later in July, where the team will face Al Hilal (Saudi Arabia), Pachuca (Mexico) and RB Salzburg (Austria) in the group stage.
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Alonso began work at the club’s training facility in Valdebebas with only five first-team players available, as some are on national team duties and others injured.
Rodrygo can leave Real Madrid
Real Madrid have already strengthened their squad ahead of their tour of the United States, with the signings of Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool and Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth.
Several new players are also expected, while some may leave the club.
One player who could potentially leave is Rodrygo, who has been heavily linked with Arsenal. Chelsea are also monitoring the situation closely, according to reports.
Mikel Arteta is determined to strengthen his squad ahead of the 2025/26 season in order to challenge Liverpool, having finished behind them in last year’s Premier League.
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Rodrygo wants clarity about his role
According to The Athletic, several Premier League clubs have contacted Rodrygo via intermediaries, and Arsenal see him as a player who can add a new dimension to their attack.
But Rodrygo’s father and agent do not want to start negotiations until the Brazilian star has spoken to Real Madrid and Alonso.
It is claimed that the 24-year-old wants to “feel important” and that he “feels most comfortable on the left or central, rather than on the right”.
If Rodrygo signs for Arsenal, Arteta could place him in his preferred left-wing position, with Bukayo Saka on the right.
Key player for Real Madrid
The Brazilian international has been a mainstay at Real Madrid for the past three seasons, making 50 appearances across all competitions since 2022/23.
Last season, he scored 14 goals in 51 games.
Now it remains to be seen if Alonso can convince him to stay – or if a move to the Premier League will be the next step in his career.
