Xabi Alonso sends message to Arsenal and Chelsea over Rodrygo transfer

Real Madrid’s new head coach Xabi Alonso has made it clear that the club has no intention of letting one of their star wingers, Rodrygo, leave this summer despite growing interest from Premier League giants Arsenal and Chelsea.

Rodrygo Goes, the Brazilian winger, has been a vital part of Real Madrid’s squad since his arrival from Santos in 2019. At just 24 years old, Rodrygo has already amassed 267 appearances for Los Blancos, making him one of the most consistent wide attackers in European football over the past few seasons.

His impressive performances have not gone unnoticed. Both Arsenal and Chelsea have been linked with a potential summer move for the Brazilian star. The Gunners view Rodrygo as a “dream” signing to bolster their attacking options following another season finishing second in the Premier League and yet again missing out on silverware.

Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s manager, is keen to strengthen his squad in wide attacking areas, and Rodrygo’s name frequently tops their wishlist. However, the financial demands for securing Rodrygo’s services are significant, which has led Arsenal to also consider more affordable alternatives like Kaoru Mitoma and Bryan Mbeumo.

Chelsea, under new management by Enzo Maresca, have returned to the Champions League next season after finishing fourth in the Premier League. The Blues are actively looking to reinforce their squad, and Rodrygo is high on their target list to add pace and creativity on the flanks.

Despite this intense Premier League interest, Xabi Alonso, freshly appointed as Real Madrid’s manager, is confident Rodrygo will remain at the Santiago Bernabéu. Speaking at his official unveiling, Alonso described Rodrygo as a “spectacular player” and emphasized how crucial he will be for the team moving forward.

“Rodrygo is a Real Madrid player,” Alonso stated firmly. “He is a spectacular player and we will need him in the squad next season and beyond.”

Alonso takes over the reins following the departure of Carlo Ancelotti, a club legend who recently left to manage the Brazil national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Ancelotti’s final season with Real Madrid was challenging, with the club losing the La Liga title to rivals Barcelona and suffering a defeat in the Copa del Rey final against the same opponents.

Real Madrid also exited the Champions League at the quarter-final stage, falling to Arsenal in what was a surprising and disappointing end to the campaign. Alonso now faces the task of rebuilding the squad and restoring Madrid’s dominance domestically and in Europe.

“It’s the start of an era,” Alonso said. “Real Madrid fans are excited about this new chapter. We aim to grow and make the history of this club even greater.”

Alonso reflected on his personal connection to the club, calling his appointment a “special day” that he will always remember. The former midfielder stressed his belief in the current squad’s potential.

“We have fantastic players, a team with a lot of potential, capable of delivering a very good present and future,” Alonso explained. “That gives me energy and hope to get the best out of all the players and build a great team.”

With a squad boasting European Cup winners and many young talents, Alonso is confident Real Madrid can achieve “big things” worthy of the club’s illustrious history.

Alonso’s vision for the team involves not just winning trophies but also playing with emotion, energy, and ambition, forging a strong connection with the fans.

“I want a team that transmits emotion, energy, ambitious play, and connects with the fans,” he said.

The new manager also paid tribute to his predecessor Ancelotti, acknowledging the immense impact the Italian coach had on his career and on the club’s recent successes.

“Carlo was my coach, a great person and a huge influence,” Alonso said. “Without his mastery, I probably wouldn’t be here. I take over and carry on his legacy with great honour and pride.”

Rodrygo’s future at Real Madrid is therefore looking secure for now, with Alonso’s message to Arsenal and Chelsea sending a clear warning: Real Madrid will not entertain offers for one of their brightest stars lightly.

As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on the Bernabéu to see how Alonso shapes his team and whether he can keep hold of Rodrygo amidst the Premier League’s tempting offers.

For Arsenal and Chelsea fans, it’s a waiting game – but for Real Madrid, the message is loud and clear: Rodrygo stays, and he will be a key figure in Alonso’s plans to restore the club’s glory.