Rodrygo Goes, Real Madrid’s forward, chose to stay with the club for the 2025/26 season despite transfer rumors, setting up a direct competition with Vinicius Jr. for the left-wing position. Revealed on September 4, 2025, by the Spanish newspaper “As,” this decision marks a new chapter for the former Santos star, who aims to regain prominence under Xabi Alonso’s leadership. At the Santiago Bernabéu in Madrid, the internal competition fostered by the Spanish coach promises to elevate both Brazilian players’ performances, as Rodrygo seeks to establish himself in his preferred role. The choice reflects his resolve to overcome a period of limited opportunities, particularly after sparse appearances in the Club World Cup. This rivalry, far from personal, is seen as a strategy to strengthen the Merengue squad.
The 2025/26 season began with challenges for Rodrygo, who lost prominence in the final stretch of Carlo Ancelotti’s tenure. Xabi Alonso’s arrival brought fresh prospects but also heightened competition in the attack. The 24-year-old Brazilian publicly expressed his desire to play on the left wing, where he believes he can best showcase his technical skills.
- Key moments in Rodrygo’s season:
- Started in the Club World Cup opener against Al-Hilal, providing an assist.
- Played just 28 minutes in the tournament’s remaining matches.
- Stood out against Real Oviedo, reinforcing his claim for the left wing.
- Showed frustration after a controversial substitution in the same match.
Xabi Alonso’s new tactical approach
Xabi Alonso, who took over Real Madrid in April 2025, introduced a merit-based philosophy to the squad. The Spanish coach implemented tactical changes, such as a 3-4-2-1 formation, demanding greater versatility from attackers. In this context, Rodrygo saw an opportunity to reposition himself. In talks with Alonso, the forward made it clear he wants to play on the left wing, where he can cut inside and shoot accurately. This position, however, is dominated by Vinicius Jr., who has solidified his role with decisive performances in recent seasons.
Alonso accepted Rodrygo’s challenge but continues to rely on Vinicius as a cornerstone of his project. The coach’s strategy is clear: foster internal competition to bring out the best in both players. In a 3-0 win over Real Oviedo on August 24, 2025, Rodrygo started on the left and delivered a solid performance, with 94% pass accuracy and four shots. Vinicius, coming off the bench, scored a goal and provided an assist, underscoring his importance.
- Alonso’s tactical changes:
- Adopted a 3-4-2-1, emphasizing offensive wingers.
- Rotated Rodrygo, Vinicius, and other forwards like Brahim Díaz and Franco Mastantuono.
- Focused on meritocracy, with no guaranteed starters.
- Integrated young talents like Gonzalo García, competing for attacking roles.
🟢 @EderMilitao
— Real Madrid C.F. 🇧🇷🇵🇹 (@realmadridpt) September 2, 2025
🟡 @RodrygoGoes pic.twitter.com/gOrdRpqn2h
Rodrygo’s performance and Vinicius’ shadow
Rodrygo, who joined Real Madrid from Santos in 2019 for €40 million, has 68 goals and 51 assists in 270 matches for the club. Despite these impressive numbers, his 2024/25 season was marked by inconsistency. With Kylian Mbappé’s arrival and the rise of youngsters like Endrick and Gonzalo García, his playing time dwindled. In the 2025 Club World Cup, he started only against Al-Hilal, logging under 100 minutes overall. His last standout performance before the current season was on March 4, 2025, scoring in a 2-1 Champions League win over Atlético Madrid.
Vinicius Jr., meanwhile, remains a key figure in the Merengue attack. With 83 goals and 75 assists in a similar number of games, he is indispensable to Alonso’s system. His ability to unsettle defenses on the left with dribbles and runs to the byline contrasts with Rodrygo’s style, which focuses on precise finishes and inward movement. The competition between the two Brazilians, friends off the pitch, is seen as an opportunity for mutual growth.
Reactions to the battle for a starting spot
Rodrygo’s decision to stay at Real Madrid, despite interest from clubs like Manchester City, Arsenal, and Tottenham, reflects his confidence in reclaiming his place. The newspaper “As” noted that he turned down offers exceeding €90 million to face the challenge at the Bernabéu. While the Merengue fanbase is divided, many see the rivalry as a chance to boost the team’s level, especially in crucial matches like the upcoming El Clásico against Barcelona on June 29, 2025.
The Spanish press also praised Alonso’s approach, which has maintained locker-room harmony despite the fierce competition. After the Oviedo match, the coach stated: “I saw a lot of desire from Rodrygo to have a great season. Competition is healthy and benefits the team.” Alonso’s strategy has been compared to the management of star-studded squads of the past, like those of Zidane and Figo in the 2000s, when tactical adjustments accommodated multiple talents.
- Press and fan reactions:
- Praise for Rodrygo’s “electric” performance against Oviedo, per “Marca.”
- Expectations that the rivalry with Vinicius will elevate the attack’s performance.
- Minor criticism of Vinicius and Mbappé’s lack of defensive contribution.
- Fan support for Alonso’s merit-based approach to the squad.
Rodrygo’s history on the left wing
Rodrygo has always excelled on the left wing during his time at Santos and in matches for the Brazilian national team. At Real Madrid, however, he was often deployed on the right or as a central midfielder, adapting to the team’s needs. In 2024, under Ancelotti, he shone on the left during Vinicius’ absence, scoring twice against Athletic Bilbao. This performance reignited the debate about his best position, with Rodrygo himself telling “El País” that he performs better in that role.
His preference for the left is not just about comfort but also his playing style. Rodrygo uses his speed and skill to cut inside, finishing with his right foot. This makes him a constant threat near the box but requires tactical adjustments to coexist with Vinicius, who favors runs to the byline. Mbappé’s arrival, who also plays on the left or as a striker, adds further complexity to the Merengue attack.
Internal competition and Real Madrid’s future
The 2025/26 season will be pivotal for Rodrygo. With a contract until 2028, he has time to establish himself, but the competition in the attack is fierce. Beyond Vinicius and Mbappé, young players like Franco Mastantuono and Gonzalo García are gaining prominence under Alonso. The coach, known for his ability to manage squads, faces the challenge of balancing so many stars without disrupting team harmony.
The left-wing battle also reflects Real Madrid’s evolution under Alonso. After a disappointing season, marked by a loss to PSG in the Club World Cup, the club aims to reclaim dominance in La Liga and the Champions League. Rodrygo, with his experience in titles like two Champions Leagues, is seen as a key piece, provided he can outshine Vinicius.
- Factors influencing the competition:
- Rodrygo’s versatility, having played multiple positions.
- Vinicius’ consistency as an undisputed starter in recent years.
- Mbappé’s arrival, intensifying the competition in the attack.
- Alonso’s philosophy, prioritizing performance and commitment.
Impact of the rivalry on the squad
The competition between Rodrygo and Vinicius is not just a tactical matter but a reflection of Real Madrid’s ambition to maintain its hegemony. Fans hope the rivalry will elevate the team’s performance, especially in high-stakes games like the upcoming match against Mallorca on August 30, 2025. Alonso’s ability to manage egos and talents will be tested, but early signs are positive, with both players showing commitment.
Despite frustration in moments like the Oviedo substitution, Rodrygo remains confident in reclaiming his spot. His decision to stay at Real Madrid, despite lucrative offers, signals his determination. For Vinicius, the pressure to maintain his starting role could spur further improvement.
- Benefits of internal competition:
- Improved individual performances from Rodrygo and Vinicius.
- Greater squad depth for competitions like the Champions League.
- Motivation for young talents to stand out.
- Reinforcement of a competitive mentality in the locker room.
