Xabi Alonso and Real Madrid Dramatically Reverse Course on Rodrygo Transfer Decision

Reports suggest that Real Madrid's head coach Xabi Alonso would be willing to part ways with Rodrygo during the upcoming transfer window, with Arsenal reportedly showing interest in the Brazilian winger.

Questions surrounding Rodrygo's position at the Bernabéu emerged late in the previous campaign under then-manager Carlo Ancelotti, and this became one of the primary issues Alonso had to address upon taking charge at Real Madrid this summer.

Despite Alonso initially expressing his backing for Rodrygo and stating that the 24-year-old would play an important role in his plans, this support hasn't been evident during the Club World Cup campaign. While Rodrygo featured in Alonso's debut match as a starter, he has subsequently remained on the bench as an unused substitute in two of the next three fixtures, with his sole appearance being a brief cameo off the bench.

According to The Athletic, Alonso now shares the club hierarchy's stance regarding a potential summer departure for Rodrygo.

Although neither the coaching staff nor the club's leadership are expected to actively pursue Rodrygo's exit, there's a mutual understanding that they won't obstruct his departure should he decide to move on and an appropriate offer materializes.

Arsenal are actively pursuing Rodrygo's services for the summer window and have engaged in initial discussions with his representatives, though they would need to submit a substantial offer to persuade Madrid to part with the player. Various reports have placed Rodrygo's valuation at approximately €90 million (£77.7 million, $106.1 million)—a figure that might require Arsenal to make a major sale first.

Throughout his six-season tenure at Madrid, Rodrygo has found it challenging to replicate the performances of the world-class talents around him, with his inconsistent displays reportedly contributing to the club's readiness to consider offers.

Rodrygo's father, who serves as his representative, has expressed dissatisfaction with his son's role within the team, creating some friction internally. The Brazilian international is believed to have maintained that he would deliver better performances if deployed in his favored left-wing position, currently occupied by Vinicius Junior.

Arsenal are actively seeking a left-sided attacking player and could provide Rodrygo with the opportunity to secure that positional switch at the Emirates Stadium.