Real Madrid: Xabi Alonso decides, final decision for Rodrygo

Real Madrid have finally settled the debate surrounding Rodrygo’s future. After months of speculation linking the Brazilian winger with a departure, particularly to the Premier League, head coach Xabi Alonso has made his stance clear: Rodrygo will remain at the Santiago Bernabéu.

All summer long, his name was one of the most frequently mentioned in transfer gossip. Reports from England suggested that Manchester City, led by Pep Guardiola, were eager to secure his services. There were whispers of direct approaches and media projections that placed him in sky blue. But despite the noise, the outcome is now official — Rodrygo is staying in Madrid.

This decision ends weeks of uncertainty for the 24-year-old, who has already completed six seasons with the Merengues. Though he has experienced moments of doubt, Rodrygo has consistently reiterated his ambition to succeed at Real Madrid. His exclusion from the FIFA Club World Cup earlier this year and his absence from the La Liga season opener only intensified speculation, but the forward never once wavered in his public declarations.

The interest from Manchester City was serious. Reports indicated that the Citizens were willing to put €100 million on the table for his transfer, coupled with a lucrative salary package. For many players, that type of offer would have been irresistible. However, Rodrygo, backed by the firm stance of club president Florentino Pérez, turned it down.

The reason is simple: ambition. Rodrygo understands the level of competition at Real Madrid, with teammates such as Vinícius Júnior, Kylian Mbappé, Brahim Díaz, and rising star Franco Mastantuono all fighting for places in the attack. Yet, instead of viewing this as a reason to leave, he sees it as a challenge to prove himself and earn the trust of Xabi Alonso.

For Xabi, the decision was not taken lightly. The Spanish tactician has been gradually reshaping Real Madrid’s playing philosophy since his appointment. While Rodrygo may not currently be viewed as an automatic starter, Alonso values his versatility, his experience in big matches, and his ability to step up in decisive moments — traits that could prove essential over the long season ahead.

Rodrygo himself has an additional motivation: the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The winger knows that his chances of representing Brazil on the grandest stage will depend on his performances at club level. A season of inconsistency or limited playing time could damage his prospects, but staying at Real Madrid gives him the platform to test himself against the very best and demonstrate his worth to Brazil’s national team selectors.

What stands out in Rodrygo’s story is his determination to fight for his place rather than take the easier route of a guaranteed starting role elsewhere. His choice reflects the mentality of a player who wants to cement his legacy at Real Madrid rather than become just another high-profile transfer in the Premier League.

The club’s fans, too, will welcome this clarity. Over the years, Rodrygo has delivered unforgettable moments, particularly in the UEFA Champions League, where his goals have often arrived in dramatic fashion. His knack for stepping up when the team needs him most makes him a valuable asset, even if he is not always in the starting XI.

Ultimately, this episode highlights Real Madrid’s long-term planning under Florentino Pérez and Xabi Alonso. The club are building an attacking core that blends experience with youth, and keeping Rodrygo ensures both continuity and depth. It also sends a message to rivals: Madrid will not be pressured into selling their prized assets, no matter how tempting the offers.

For now, Rodrygo remains a Real Madrid player with unfinished business. His mission is clear — to convince Xabi Alonso, secure regular playing time, and establish himself as a key figure for both club and country. The next few months will be decisive, and all eyes will be on how he responds to this fresh chapter in his career.