Real Madrid star sends a decisive message to Xabi Alonso: Either I start in the Club World Cup, or I’ll leave the club immediately!

Real Madrid’s preparations for the FIFA Club World Cup are intensifying, but one major internal issue has suddenly thrown the dressing room into the spotlight. With just days left until their opening match, Brazilian winger Rodrygo has issued an ultimatum to head coach Xabi Alonso that could shake the foundations of the team’s forward line.

The young forward, who has become an increasingly important figure for the club over the past few seasons, is reportedly furious over hints that he may not start in Alonso’s lineup. In a bold and direct message, Rodrygo has made it clear: he must start in the Club World Cup or he will leave Real Madrid immediately.

This explosive development comes at a time when Xabi Alonso is trying to implement a fresh tactical philosophy following his recent appointment. While many players have embraced the changes, it seems Rodrygo is struggling to come to terms with his new role—or potential lack thereof.

Rodrygo believes he has earned the right to be a guaranteed starter, especially given his consistent performances in high-stakes matches under former manager Carlo Ancelotti. His contributions in La Liga, the Champions League, and past Club World Cup qualifiers have all built the case for a leading role in the squad.

However, with the arrival of new tactical systems and the emergence of younger talents like Arda Güler and Brahim Díaz, Rodrygo’s starting spot is no longer guaranteed. That, combined with Alonso’s preference for a dynamic and fluid front three, has created uncertainty around the Brazilian’s place in the XI.

Sources close to the club reveal that Rodrygo has voiced his concerns directly to Alonso in private talks. He did not mince words. The player reportedly told the manager that he will not tolerate being benched for such a prestigious competition and that failure to include him could result in an immediate exit from the club.

The timing of this ultimatum couldn’t be more delicate. Real Madrid fans are expecting silverware, and the Club World Cup offers a prime opportunity to win an international title that has eluded them for years. But dressing room harmony is now under threat due to Rodrygo’s firm stance.

Despite his frustrations, Rodrygo is not necessarily eager to leave the Spanish capital. He is emotionally attached to the club and enjoys a strong rapport with fans. However, he wants to feel valued—and that means being on the pitch, not the bench.

If Real Madrid and Alonso fail to assure him a starting role, several Premier League clubs are waiting in the wings. Arsenal are reportedly leading the chase, with Mikel Arteta being a long-time admirer of the Brazilian’s explosive pace and creativity. Chelsea and Manchester City have also expressed interest.

These English giants are prepared to pay a premium fee for the 23-year-old, but Rodrygo’s salary demands could become a sticking point. Still, the player’s camp believes that a move to England would allow him to reset his career and assume a more prominent role than what’s currently being offered in Madrid.

It’s worth noting that Rodrygo’s discontent isn’t solely based on playing time. He reportedly feels the club hasn’t shown enough faith in him during contract talks or in the media. Younger stars like Jude Bellingham and Vinícius Jr. have been more visibly supported by the board and the press.

Rodrygo has always been known for his professionalism and team-first attitude, but this time, the stakes are personal. The Club World Cup represents a chance for him to prove he belongs in the core of the squad moving forward under Alonso’s reign.

While Real Madrid’s management has yet to officially comment on the situation, insiders suggest that talks between the player’s agents and the club have become tense. Alonso is now in a difficult position, balancing long-term tactical plans with the immediate need to maintain squad unity.

Some within the club believe Alonso may use the tournament as a testing ground for his preferred system, possibly sacrificing familiar names for tactical experimentation. Others argue that pushing Rodrygo out of the lineup could lead to serious consequences both on and off the pitch.

The final squad decision now rests with Alonso, who must weigh Rodrygo’s threats against the team’s larger goals. Whatever the outcome, this controversy has already cast a long shadow over what should have been a celebratory occasion.

Rodrygo’s future at the Santiago Bernabéu is now hanging by a thread. Whether he starts or sits out could define not only Real Madrid’s campaign in the Club World Cup—but also the trajectory of his entire career.

This saga has sparked a fierce debate among fans and pundits alike. Should Rodrygo’s talent and contributions earn him an automatic place in the squad? Or should Alonso stick to his principles and prioritize system over sentiment?

The world will soon find out, as all eyes turn to Real Madrid’s first Club World Cup match this Wednesday. Will Rodrygo be in the starting eleven—or will he already be packing his bags?

One thing is certain: the tension between star player and new manager has become the story of Madrid’s Club World Cup journey, and its resolution could shape the club’s future for seasons to come.