Doubts grow around exit-linked Real Madrid star after anonymous Club World Cup display | OneFootball

Rodrygo’s place at Real Madrid is no longer as secure as it once seemed. Despite early talk of a promising relationship with new manager Xabi Alonso, the Brazilian forward’s recent performance against Al-Hilal could reignite talks of a potential exit.

The 24-year-old, who is a subject of interest for Arsenal, ended last season on a disappointing note under Carlo Ancelotti, and things haven’t improved much since.

Rodrygo missed several games due to ongoing physical issues, making him unavailable for both Real Madrid and Brazil’s international fixtures.

His return came in the Club World Cup opener against Al-Hilal, where he started on the right wing alongside Gonzalo Garcia and Vinícius Jr. in attack, but failed to make any real impact.

Disappointing numbers and mounting pressure

Rodrygo’s performance against Al-Hilal raised eyebrows. In the 65 minutes he was on the pitch, he failed to register a single shot on target, could not complete any of his four attempted dribbles, and created just one meaningful chance, his assist for Gonzalo’s goal.

Rodrygo failed to make a mark against Al-Hilal. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images)

That assist aside, his overall influence was minimal. He was eventually replaced by Brahim Díaz with 25 minutes still left to play, which could be a sign of Alonso’s dissatisfaction.

For a player who once seemed destined to be a cornerstone of Real Madrid’s attack, the drop-off has been steep.

Now, with rising star Franco Mastantuono also set to arrive after the competition in the United States, Rodrygo’s position in the starting XI is under direct threat.

While he is expected to start in the upcoming matches against Pachuca and Salzburg, these fixtures could serve as a final test to prove he still belongs among the club’s top-tier attackers.

If Rodrygo does not step up soon, he may find himself sliding further down the pecking order, a dangerous prospect at a club where competition never sleeps. The next few games could define his future at the Santiago Bernabeu.