Xabi Alonso shares Real Madrid's stance on star winger's summer exit

Real Madrid's new manager Xabi Alonso has made his first major squad decision crystal clear: Brazilian winger Rodrygo Goes isn't going anywhere this summer. Amid growing speculation about the 24-year-old's future at the Bernabéu, Alonso delivered a firm vote of confidence that will reassure Madridistas while disappointing Premier League suitors Arsenal and Chelsea.

Xabi Alonso's definitive statement

In his first press conference addressing squad planning, Alonso left no room for interpretation regarding Rodrygo's status:

"Rodrygo is a Real Madrid player and I will talk to everyone who is a Real Madrid player. They deserve it and we need it. Rodrygo is a spectacular player, we will need him."

These words carry significant weight given recent reports that Rodrygo had grown frustrated with his role following Kylian Mbappé's arrival. The Brazilian found himself as the fourth attacking option behind Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Jude Bellingham last season, sparking rumors of a potential €100m+ move to England.

Xabi Alonso's emphatic backing suggests he views Rodrygo as integral to his tactical plans rather than expendable surplus. The manager emphasized his philosophy of maximizing elite talent:

"The good thing is to have good players. Then it's my problem!"

How Rodrygo fits Alonso's vision

While Alonso didn't reveal specific plans for Rodrygo, his comments hinted at a fluid system that plays to each attacker's strengths:

"I want the players to be able to play where they are most comfortable, where they can show their physical, tactical and mental qualities."

This approach could benefit Rodrygo, whose versatility allows him to thrive as:

A right winger cutting inside onto his left foot

A secondary striker linking play

A creative false nine in certain setups

With 17 goals and 9 assists last season, Rodrygo outperformed his xG (expected goals) by 12%—a statistic Xabi Alonso likely noted during his squad analysis.

Premier League suitors left empty-handed

Alonso's statement effectively ends Arsenal and Chelsea's pursuit, both of whom had:

Scouted Rodrygo extensively during Madrid's Champions League campaign

Prepared nine-figure bids contingent on player willingness

Explored creative payment structures to meet Financial Fair Play rules

For now, the Premier League giants must turn to alternative targets like Napoli's Khvicha Kvaratskhelia or RB Leipzig's Dani Olmo.

Alonso's man-management masterstroke

By publicly backing Rodrygo, Xabi Alonso achieves three key objectives:

Squelches transfer rumors that could destabilize preseason preparations

Reassures a valuable asset about his importance to the project

Sets a collaborative tone with his new squad

This early display of man-management savvy suggests Alonso learned well from mentors Pep Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti.