Real Madrid winger Rodrygo returned from a 53-day absence to assist in Wednesday\'s Club World Cup opener against Al Hilal. The 24-year-old Brazilian\'s extended time away has sparked transfer speculation, with Arsenal closely monitoring his situation according to The Athletic.
Rodrygo last played in Real Madrid\'s Copa del Rey final loss to Barcelona on April 26, when he was substituted at halftime. Sources close to the club cited motivation concerns during training sessions, though the player\'s representatives have denied these claims.
Arsenal has shown concrete interest in acquiring Rodrygo\'s services this summer. The Premier League club believes they can offer him a sporting project where he would play his preferred left-wing position with tactical freedom.
Rodrygo\'s father and agent Eric Goes has rejected approaches from multiple Premier League clubs through intermediaries. Arsenal remains prepared to wait for clarity on whether Rodrygo wants to leave Madrid and if the Spanish club will consider selling.
\"No, I\'m going to have a conversation with all the players because they deserve it and we need it because we have to get to know each other. That he is a spectacular player is not for me to discover. We will need him,\" new coach Xabi Alonso said about speaking with Rodrygo.
Alonso\'s appointment has brought renewed optimism for Rodrygo\'s Madrid future. Sources at the club\'s training complex noted improved attitude and engagement since the former Bayer Leverkusen manager\'s arrival.
However, Rodrygo\'s absence from Sunday\'s 3-1 victory over Pachuca has reignited speculation. Younger players including Gonzalo Garcia and Victor Munoz received playing time ahead of the Brazilian international.
The situation remains fluid as Madrid navigate Rodrygo\'s contract status and Arsenal\'s continued interest in the versatile forward.