Arsenal and Man City on red alert as Xabi Alonso provides new Rodrygo transfer update

Xabi Alonso has delivered an update on Rodrygo's future at Real Madrid. The 24-year-old winger, who has been strongly linked with a switch to the Premier League this summer, was an unused substitute in Los Blancos' opening game of the new La Liga season on Tuesday evening.

Rodrygo observed from the bench as Kylian Mbappe propelled the Spanish giants to a 1-0 victory over Osasuna. The 26-year-old forward beat Sergio Herrera from the spot after he was brought down inside the box by Juan Cruz shortly after the interval.

During the second half, Alonso introduced Franco Mastantuono and Dani Carvajal in place of Brahim Diaz and Trent Alexander-Arnold. In the closing stages, the Real Madrid manager again ignored Rodrygo.

Gonzalo Garcia later entered the fray for Vinicius Junior, while Dani Ceballos replaced Arda Guler. Despite having five substitutions available, Alonso used just four, raising more questions about the Brazil international's future.

Following the match, the former Liverpool midfielder was questioned about why Rodrygo failed to feature. Speaking to Spanish journalists, as reported by the club website, Alonso said: "Nothing's happening. The Club World Cup was a different context because of the competition.

"Today is just a game, we can put the rest behind us. What counts is this season, and of course, I'm counting on Rodrygo. It's just a game; we shouldn't read too far into the future.

"If he gets those minutes in three months, I'll be able to give you a more certain answer. Today was a matter of circumstances during the game and my decisions."

Regarding Mastantuono, whom Alonso favoured from the substitutes' bench over Rodrygo, the Real Madrid manager said: "I already saw that he could contribute, and he's had some good minutes. He hasn't been able to train with us, but he's been preparing.

"He was really looking forward to it, and sometimes the emotional aspect outweighs the hard work. He's had a good impact, and it's good news that he's made his debut."

Prior to the Osasuna clash, Alonso emphasised that Rodrygo remains integral to his project. The Spaniard remarked: "There are always rumours during summer, but he looks good to me, he's part of my plans.

"I want every one of the players here to be feeling part of the team, doing their bit, and performing at 100%. That's all I'm concerned with right now."

On the battle for a place in the starting lineup, Alonso added: "I know that competition is fantastic, and I love having two players who can play in every position, guys who want to show why they deserve their place.

"Then it's down to me to make the choice. Sometimes, I'll have to share out the minutes, but I think there are lots of positions that are very well stocked."

Earlier this summer, football.london reported that Arsenal were interested Rodrygo, but the deal would have always been difficult to complete. The Gunners' reluctance to table an offer for the Real Madrid ace rolled out the red carpet for other clubs - like Manchester City, who have recently been linked - to make their move.