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Rodrygo Nearing Real Madrid Exit After Losing Xabi Alonso’s Trust at Club World Cup
Rodrygo Goes could be heading toward the Real Madrid exit door, as his role in Xabi Alonso’s squad continues to shrink. The 2025 Club World Cup laid bare the Brazilian’s diminished status, raising serious doubts about his future at the club ahead of the summer transfer window.
Why Has Rodrygo Lost His Place?
Throughout the tournament, Rodrygo was barely involved. He didn’t feature at all against Juventus, Pachuca, or Paris Saint-Germain, and was only a starter in the opening match against Al-Hilal, where he managed to register an assist. Since then, his minutes dropped dramatically—just five minutes against Dortmund, and a brief cameo versus Salzburg.
Xabi Alonso’s tactical preferences have favored players like Gonzalo García, who scored four goals during the tournament and has quickly earned the coach’s trust. Even Brahim Díaz saw more action than the Brazilian winger.
What Has Xabi Alonso Said?
After Madrid’s elimination against PSG, Xabi Alonso stated that his selection decisions were based on current performance, not future potential. He also promised more rotation as the season progresses. However, the clear lack of involvement for Rodrygo suggests he no longer holds a central role in the manager’s plans.

What Do the Numbers Say?
Rodrygo hasn’t scored since February, going 15 straight matches without a goal and contributing just two assists in that span. That’s a sharp contrast to his form between December and January, when he racked up 10 goals and 4 assists in 11 games. His recent decline has been both noticeable and statistically significant, falling below his output from previous seasons.
Can He Still Stay?
The competition up front is fierce: Vinícius Jr., Kylian Mbappé, and Jude Bellingham are untouchable starters, while Brahim, Gonzalo García, and soon Franco Mastantuono are all battling for attacking minutes.
Given the current landscape, Rodrygo is seriously considering a departure in order to regain a starring role elsewhere. A summer move is increasingly on the table.
