Arsenal-Linked Forward Dropped From Starting XI Amid Growing Exit Speculation
Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has sent the clearest signal yet that Rodrygo may be surplus to requirements, leaving the Brazilian out of his starting lineup for Friday’s pre-season friendly against Leganés—just weeks after benching him during their Club World Cup campaign.
Despite Los Blancos’ comfortable 4-1 win in the behind-closed-doors clash—featuring stars like Vinícius Jr., Kylian Mbappé, and Thibaut Courtois—the 24-year-old’s absence from the first XI has intensified speculation about his future. While Rodrygo did make a substitute appearance, his diminished role under Alonso suggests he’s slipping down the pecking order behind emerging talents Gonzalo García, Arda Güler, and Brahim Díaz.
This snub comes amid persistent interest from Arsenal, with The Times reporting the Gunners are exploring a shock loan move for the two-time Champions League winner. Mikel Arteta’s side, having already splashed £190m this summer, view Rodrygo as an ideal left-sided attacker to compete with the inconsistent Gabriel Martinelli.
“Rodrygo’s situation is becoming impossible to ignore,” a Madrid insider revealed. “When you’re behind three players who weren’t even regulars last season, the writing might be on the wall.”
Despite Saudi Pro League clubs testing Madrid’s resolve with lucrative offers—reportedly rejected due to the club’s prestige-over-money policy—Rodrygo’s frustration has simmered since Carlo Ancelotti’s tenure, where he often played out of position. Mbappé’s arrival and Vinícius’ undisputed status have now pushed him further toward the exit.
With 270 appearances and 13 trophies to his name, Rodrygo’s potential departure would mark the end of an era. As one Bernabéu regular lamented: “He’s been a clutch player in big moments, but football moves fast—sometimes too fast.”
Arsenal’s loan approach presents a delicate dilemma for Madrid: keep a disgruntled star or let him reignite his career elsewhere, potentially strengthening a Champions League rival. For Rodrygo, the message seems clear—his days as a Madrid regular may already be over.
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