Real Madrid forward decides to stay amid Arsenal interest – but club demands a reaction | OneFootball

Following his substitution during the Copa del Rey final against FC Barcelona in late April, Rodrygo did not play a single game for Real Madrid.

The 24-year-old forward did appear in training before the match against Mallorca, but did not feature due to an unspecified injury – and there was no official medical update issued.

Following the conclusion of the La Liga season and Carlo Ancelotti’s move to the Brazil national team, the Italian left Rodrygo out of his first squad selection as well.

During this period, there has been a lot of speculation that Rodrygo is not happy at Real Madrid and is seeking a departure in the summer transfer window.

Arsenal, for one, have shown a strong interest in the forward with informal contacts also taking place.

Rodrygo decides to stay

However, according to Jose Felix Diaz of MARCA, Rodrygo has decided he wants to continue at Real Madrid amidst all the noise about his future.

Set to stay. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

With Xabi Alonso set to take over on Monday, Real Madrid are entering a new chapter. And club executives, who have supported Rodrygo throughout this difficult period, asked the forward about his future intentions.

The 24-year-old former Santos forward’s answer was clear – he wants to stay at Real Madrid. He has also conveyed this message directly to Florentino Perez and Jose Angel Sanchez in recent days, and to Ancelotti, who will now coach him with Brazil.

Real Madrid want a reaction from Rodrygo

At Valdebebas, there is unease surrounding the situation. Everyone recognises Rodrygo’s talent, but his drop in form since February is a concern.

Throughout, the coaching staff and board have stood by the forward, but they are now asking for a reaction, a response – a show of intent that he is ready to rejoin the high-performance rhythm Real Madrid demands.

Xabi Alonso, in his first press conference, stated that he counts on Rodrygo. Still, the player and the new manager now have to build a relationship, and the Brazilian must deliver his best during the Club World Cup.

Rodrygo now has 45 days to convince everyone, starting with himself, that his place is at Real Madrid.