Xabi Alonso's Shocking Rodrygo Call Powers Real Madrid to Historic Club World Cup Triumph

Despite mounting transfer rumors, Rodrygo was completely absent from Real Madrid's inaugural triumph under new manager Xabi Alonso.

Doubts continue to emerge regarding Rodrygo's future at Real Madrid after a disappointing 2024–25 season. The Brazilian forward managed only 14 goals across 51 matches, marking his weakest output in the famous white jersey since 2021. As the campaign concluded, he had slipped from Carlo Ancelotti's starting lineup.

The 24-year-old appeared ready for a new beginning under manager Alonso, who included him in the starting eleven for his debut match leading Los Blancos. The winger provided an assist for Real Madrid's sole goal against Al Hilal, though he was substituted in the 65th minute following an uneven display.

Rather than offering Rodrygo another opportunity to prove himself, Alonso chose to deploy Fede Valverde on the right flank against Pachuca in Los Blancos' subsequent Club World Cup encounter. Arda Güler was also selected alongside Jude Bellingham in a 4-1-2-3 formation, which left Rodrygo excluded from the lineup.

The Brazilian star not only missed out on a starting position at Bank of America Stadium but was also overlooked for any substitute appearance. Rodrygo remained on the sidelines throughout Real Madrid's 3–1 triumph over Pachuca, without even participating in warm-up exercises during the second period.

Alonso preferred to give playing time to Brahim Díaz, Dani Ceballos, Luka Modrić, Antonio Rüdiger, and even Real Madrid Castilla graduate Víctor Muñoz ahead of the Brazilian. Rodrygo joined only two other first-team members, reserve keeper Andriy Lunin and departure-linked Lucas Vázquez, in not appearing during the contest.

The winger may also be preparing to leave the world's most prestigious club. The two-time Champions League champion has attracted attention from several Premier League teams, notably Arsenal and Chelsea. While Rodrygo previously expressed his commitment to remaining at Real Madrid, the final decision may depend on Alonso's future tactical approach.

Given Güler's rise and the anticipated signing of Franco Mastantuono, Rodrygo may need to accept the difficult truth that his tenure at Real Madrid might conclude earlier than anticipated.