Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has played down speculation surrounding Rodrygo’s future after the Brazilian forward was left on the bench during Los Blancos’ crushing 4–0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup semi-final on Wednesday.
The Spanish giants were outclassed by a dominant PSG side that ruthlessly exploited defensive frailties, handing Madrid one of their most humbling results of the season.
Despite starting stars Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior alongside youngster Gonzalo Garcia, Madrid’s attack failed to deliver. Notably absent from the lineup was Rodrygo, who remained an unused substitute for the fifth consecutive match—fueling rumors of a potential summer exit.
Addressing the media after the final whistle, Alonso was quick to shut down any suggestion that Rodrygo’s omission was linked to ongoing transfer speculation.
“I didn’t play Rodrygo for a technical decision,” Alonso said. “We thought we would be better off with other players. It’s not about his future.”
The 23-year-old forward has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League, with Arsenal reportedly among the clubs most interested in securing his services ahead of the summer transfer window.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Nana Agyenim Boateng Sikapa
