RODRYGO’S DOUBTS VANISHED UNDER XABI ALONSO’S COMMAND—EVERY PASS, EVERY MOVE NOW BURSTING WITH PURPOSE AND FEARLESS INTENT

The atmosphere around Valdebebas has transformed. Real Madrid’s preseason camp, once tense with uncertainty for several players, has now become a hotbed of optimism—and none more so than for Brazilian winger Rodrygo Goes. Under the new stewardship of Xabi Alonso, the 24-year-old seems to have cast aside the shadows that haunted him in recent months.

Rodrygo’s journey at Madrid hasn’t always been smooth. Despite his evident talent and occasional flashes of brilliance, the young forward often found himself in and out of the starting lineup. Questions about his position, role, and long-term future with Los Blancos intensified, particularly toward the end of the last campaign.

However, all of that appears to be changing under Xabi Alonso’s leadership. The former Real Madrid midfielder, who returned as head coach following his impressive spell at Bayer Leverkusen, has brought a clear tactical vision to the club—one that seems to have reignited Rodrygo’s fire and sharpened his focus.

A recent training session offered a glimpse into this renewed energy. A video circulating online showed Alonso closely monitoring Rodrygo during tactical drills. The interaction wasn’t just instructional; it was supportive, encouraging, and filled with intent. Every touch Rodrygo took, every run he made, carried purpose—no longer just flair, but directed aggression.

The winger even took to Instagram to express his joy. In a post captioned simply “Happy” accompanied by a smiley face and a white heart emoji, Rodrygo shared an image of himself grinning during training in the all-white kit of Real Madrid. For a player who had seemed disillusioned just weeks earlier, the message was unmistakable: he feels valued again.

Sources close to the squad say Alonso is building around youth, pace, and technical brilliance. In that blueprint, Rodrygo isn’t just a piece—he’s central to the plan. Unlike the previous regime, where Rodrygo was often shunted between roles, Alonso reportedly sees him as a fixed component on the right flank, a role that allows him to cut inside, combine with the midfield, and exploit the half-space with devastating speed.

It’s not just tactics that are shifting—it’s mindset. Rodrygo’s confidence appears to be soaring. Friends of the player say he’s approaching training with more intensity and staying back after sessions to polish specific areas of his game. He’s determined not just to survive under Alonso, but to thrive.

This turnaround couldn’t come at a better time. With the Club World Cup looming and the La Liga season just around the corner, Madrid will need Rodrygo at his best. The injuries that plagued him late last season are behind him, and his fitness levels have returned to peak form. This physical resurgence is key to fulfilling Alonso’s high-pressing, possession-dominant system.

Alonso himself is said to be deeply impressed with Rodrygo’s response. According to insiders, the new coach singled him out in a recent team talk, praising his attitude and work ethic. For a squad filled with Galacticos and young stars vying for attention, such recognition can go a long way in shaping a player’s mental approach.

The timing is also significant considering persistent transfer rumors. Rodrygo had been loosely linked to Premier League clubs, notably Arsenal, with speculations suggesting he could seek a fresh challenge. But his body language and current commitment indicate he has no intention of leaving the Santiago Bernabéu—at least not while Alonso is in charge.

Indeed, Alonso’s presence may be the most decisive factor in Rodrygo’s Madrid story. The coach, known for his cerebral approach as a player, is applying the same strategic clarity as a manager. And with Rodrygo, he appears to have forged a bond that is equal parts tactical and personal.

Alonso understands the Brazilian flair—after all, he played alongside the likes of Kaká and Marcelo. But more importantly, he knows how to channel it into results. Under his guidance, Rodrygo’s game is becoming more efficient, less wasteful, and considerably more impactful.

As Madrid gear up for a season filled with expectations—domestically and in Europe—Rodrygo could be the surprise centerpiece. With Vinicius Jr. commanding attention on the left and Bellingham dictating midfield, Rodrygo on the right adds the final ingredient to a potentially lethal attacking trident.

For now, the Brazilian star seems at peace. His joy, his hunger, and his ambition all point to a player reborn. The pressure of playing for Real Madrid hasn’t vanished—but it’s no longer paralyzing. Instead, under Alonso’s command, it’s become a driving force.

This may be the beginning of Rodrygo’s most defining chapter at Real Madrid. And if the early signs are anything to go by, it’s going to be electric.

As one insider put it, “He’s no longer playing to prove anything. He’s playing like he already belongs—and that makes all the difference.”