Real Madrid, under Xabi Alonso’s management, is undergoing a tactical overhaul during the 2025 Club World Cup, and Brazilian forward Rodrygo Goés faces a challenging moment. Qualified for the round of 16 against Juventus, the Spanish club adapts to the coach’s new playing style, which prioritizes Vinicius Júnior as a central figure. Rodrygo, often relegated to the bench, sees his future at the club in doubt, with rumors of a potential transfer gaining momentum, particularly to Arsenal in the Premier League. Talks are expected to intensify after the tournament, while Manchester City also monitors the situation. The player’s dissatisfaction and desire for more playing time fuel speculation about his next move.
Rodrygo’s situation reflects the tactical changes introduced by Alonso, who seeks a more dynamic team. The 24-year-old Brazilian has struggled to secure a starting spot, despite his recognized talent. Madrid’s fanbase, meanwhile, is split on his performances, adding pressure for a resolution.
- Key points of the moment:
- Rodrygo has been a substitute in Club World Cup matches.
- Arsenal leads negotiations with an offer close to 80 million euros.
- Manchester City emerges as a contender for the Brazilian.
Rodrygo’s potential departure could mark a turning point in his career, which already boasts major titles like the Champions League. However, competition with Vinicius Júnior and Alonso’s choices shape the current scenario.
🚨 BREAKING: Eberechi Eze has given the green light to Arsenal and is keen on the move. Talks with Crystal Palace progressing quickly, with payment structure being finalized. Arsenal's pursuit of Eze does *NOT* impact their interest in Rodrygo Gunners pushing for both!🔴⚪️… pic.twitter.com/kH6lZMC80R
— Sky Sports Premium League (@SkyPremiumLeag) June 30, 2025
Tactical shifts at Real Madrid
Xabi Alonso, who took over Real Madrid in 2025, introduced a tactical approach emphasizing quick transitions and greater freedom for attacking players. Vinicius Júnior, adapting to this philosophy, gained prominence, often playing more centrally, as seen in the match against RB Salzburg, where he scored and assisted. Rodrygo, conversely, has not fully fit into this system.
The Spanish coach appears to favor other players for attacking roles, relegating the Brazilian to a secondary role. Sources close to the club suggest Alonso prioritizes players suited to his vision, which may explain Rodrygo’s reduced minutes. His limited role in the Club World Cup reinforces the perception that he is not a key part of the plans.
This tactical overhaul also reflects the pressure for immediate results. Real Madrid, after an up-and-down season, sees the Club World Cup as a chance to solidify the new project. Meanwhile, Rodrygo’s situation sparks debates among fans and analysts about his ability to adapt or seek new challenges.
Arsenal’s growing interest
Arsenal, led by Mikel Arteta, views Rodrygo as an ideal addition to bolster their attack. The London club, enjoying a strong Premier League campaign, is prepared to invest around 80 million euros (R$514 million) to secure the transfer. Talks are reportedly set to gain momentum after the Club World Cup, with Real Madrid open to negotiations.
Rodrygo’s potential move to Arsenal would address the need for a versatile player capable of playing on the wings or in central roles. Arteta, known for nurturing young talent, could provide the Brazilian with the ideal setting to regain confidence and prominence. Arsenal fans are already excited about the prospect, though the outcome hinges on financial agreements and the player’s decision.
Premier League competition
In addition to Arsenal, Manchester City has entered the race for Rodrygo. The club, managed by Pep Guardiola, seeks options to maintain competitiveness across multiple competitions. The Brazilian’s versatility, allowing him to play various attacking roles, attracts the Citizens’ interest. However, Arsenal remains the frontrunner due to more advanced negotiations.
The Premier League, known for its intensity and visibility, offers Rodrygo a chance to showcase his potential in a new context. The 24-year-old, who has faced tough defenses in La Liga and the Champions League, could thrive in a highly competitive league. His decision will also depend on personal factors, such as adapting to English football and securing regular minutes.
Tactical disagreements with Xabi Alonso
According to reports, Rodrygo expressed a desire to play as a left-winger, a position occupied by Vinicius Júnior, one of the world’s top players. His conversation with Xabi Alonso about this tactical preference appears to have had little impact, as the coach continues to favor Vini in that role. This situation has caused discomfort, contributing to the view that the Brazilian does not fit into the club’s long-term plans.
The Santos academy product has always been praised for his tactical intelligence and finishing ability. However, internal competition at Real Madrid, combined with Alonso’s choices, has limited his opportunities. Rodrygo’s dissatisfaction is a key factor in the transfer talks, as he seeks a club where he can play in his preferred position.
Rodrygo’s Real Madrid tenure
Since joining Real Madrid in 2019, Rodrygo has won major titles, including two Champions Leagues and three La Liga titles. At 24, he brings experience in high-stakes competitions, making him a valuable asset in the transfer market. His career, however, has seen moments of inconsistency, particularly in the 2024/2025 season before Alonso’s arrival.
- Rodrygo’s key achievements at Real Madrid:
- Champions League: 2022 and 2024.
- La Liga: 2020, 2022, and 2024.
- Club World Cup: 2022.
Despite his impressive resume, a lack of regular starts and criticism from some fans weigh against his stay. The 2025 Club World Cup, where Real Madrid faces Juventus in the round of 16, may be Rodrygo’s final competition with the club.
Madrid fans’ reactions
Real Madrid’s fanbase is divided over Rodrygo. While some acknowledge his talent and potential, others criticize his lack of consistency in crucial moments. Social media reflects this debate, with opinions ranging from calls for more opportunities to support for his potential exit. The pressure from fans, coupled with exposure in the Club World Cup, heightens the uncertainty.
Fans also compare Rodrygo to Vinicius Júnior, who has established himself as the team’s technical leader. This comparison, often unfair, fuels the perception that the forward has not matched the same level of impact. His possible move to the Premier League is seen by some as a chance for renewal for both the player and Real Madrid’s squad.
Transfer market heating up
The European transfer market is buzzing, and Rodrygo’s situation is just one of many expected moves for the 2026 window. Real Madrid, with strong financial resources, could use the Brazilian’s sale to invest in new talent or strengthen other positions. The club has a history of negotiating key players, such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Casemiro, in the past.
Arsenal, meanwhile, aims to cement its status among the Premier League’s elite, and signing Rodrygo would be a strategic step. Manchester City, with its long-term project, also sees the Brazilian as a quality addition. The resolution of Rodrygo’s future will depend on his performance in the Club World Cup and the concrete offers that reach Real Madrid.
Next steps in the Club World Cup
Real Madrid remains focused on the Club World Cup, with the Juventus clash as the next hurdle. Rodrygo, despite limited starts, may get crucial minutes, especially if Alonso rotates the squad. The tournament is a global stage, and the Brazilian’s performances could directly impact his market value and interest from English clubs.
The competition also tests Alonso’s ideas, as he seeks his first major title with the club. The pressure for results and the need to unify the squad make Rodrygo’s situation more delicate, as the coach appears to prioritize tactical cohesion over individual names.
Rodrygo’s market profile
At 24, Rodrygo is a young player with experience in top-tier competitions. His speed, dribbling, and finishing make him appealing to elite clubs. In the Premier League, he would face diverse defenses and adapt to a more physical style of play.
- Rodrygo’s key attributes:
- Speed in counter-attacks.
- Skill in short dribbles.
- Versatility across attacking positions.
- Experience in high-stakes matches.
A potential move to Arsenal or Manchester City would be a milestone in his career, offering a fresh start in one of the world’s most prestigious leagues. The outcome of the negotiations will be closely watched by fans and analysts.
