Prove Yourself or You're Out: Real Madrid Manager Xabi Alonso Warns Star Wanted By Arsenal, Liverpool, Man City

Real Madrid edged Osasuna 1–0 over the weekend thanks to Kylian Mbappe’s penalty, but the post-match conversation was dominated not by the goal, but by the players Xabi Alonso chose to leave on the bench—particularly Rodrygo. The Brazilian forward, who has long been the subject of transfer rumors, now finds himself under the spotlight once again.

When asked about Rodrygo’s absence from the starting lineup, Alonso made it clear he still counts on the 23-year-old:

“Rodrygo? Nothing is happening. I count on Rodrygo, of course. It’s just one game… This was my decision,” the Madrid manager explained.

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Alonso emphasized that the decision was tactical, not disciplinary, but he also added a warning of sorts: “If in three months he still isn’t getting these minutes, then it’s different.”

In other words, Rodrygo remains part of the plan—for now.

That hasn’t stopped speculation from swirling.

Arsenal are widely reported to be leading the chase, with manager Mikel Arteta keen to add Rodrygo’s versatility to his attacking options. Reports suggest the Gunners could test Madrid’s resolve with an offer around €80–90 million.

Manchester City have also been mentioned as potential suitors, while Liverpool continue to monitor the situation given their own forward line transition.

According to Cadena SER, Madrid have even placed a price tag of €90 million on the Brazilian, a fee that could help fund a new midfielder Alonso is said to want.

Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhães added fuel to the fire this week, calling Rodrygo a “phenomenon” and hinting at how well he could fit into the Premier League.

Spanish outlet Marca claims this coming weekend could prove decisive for Rodrygo’s future. Real Madrid face Real Oviedo, and the Brazilian is expected to start. A strong performance could cement his role under Alonso and quiet the transfer noise—for now. A lackluster showing, however, may accelerate his path toward the exit door.

Rodrygo has enjoyed memorable moments in a Madrid shirt—none more so than his Champions League heroics in 2022—but consistency has been his biggest challenge. With Mbappe now leading the line and Vinícius Júnior untouchable on the left, the Brazilian must fight harder than ever to prove his worth.

For Alonso, it isn’t about ultimatums, but about standards: every player must show they belong in the starting XI. And for Rodrygo, the next 90 minutes could go a long way in deciding whether his future remains at the Bernabéu—or in the Premier League.