Real Madrid secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Juventus in the Club World Cup Round of 16, booking their place in the quarterfinals. But while the team celebrated another step toward the title, not everyone in white had reason to smile.
Brazilian forward Rodrygo was once again left out of the action, failing to register even a minute on the pitch. As the matches roll by, his presence in Xabi Alonso’s squad has increasingly felt like that of a forgotten man.
Spanish outlet Marca didn’t mince words: Rodrygo is becoming little more than a bystander in this “Alonso era.” Against Juventus, a match where Real needed fresh attacking legs, he remained on the bench from start to finish. It marked the third straight game in which the 23-year-old failed to make the starting lineup.
So far in this Club World Cup campaign, Madrid have played 360 minutes. Rodrygo has featured for just 88 of them. He made brief appearances against Al Hilal and Red Bull Salzburg, but was left entirely out against Pachuca, not even warming up. Against Juventus, he was seen going through warm-ups along the sideline, but never got the call.
For a player once seen as a rising star in Madrid’s attack, the contrast is jarring.
A Drop in Form, A Drop in Status
Rodrygo’s struggles aren’t limited to playing time. His goal drought continues; he hasn’t found the net since the second leg of the Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid. In La Liga, his last goal came back in January against Las Palmas.
With no goals, no assists, and no decisive contributions in recent games, his influence has all but disappeared. In a team like Real Madrid, where competition is relentless, those numbers matter.
Making matters worse for Rodrygo, others around him are stepping up. Youngster Gonzalo has emerged with energy and confidence, and superstar Kylian Mbappé is back from illness. The Frenchman returned to action against Juventus, coming on as a substitute in the 68th minute. He may not yet be at full throttle, but it’s clear that as long as he’s fit, he will remain a priority in Alonso’s plans.
Alonso Staying Quiet, but the Message is Clear
Xabi Alonso has avoided direct criticism of Rodrygo and continues to show respect for the Brazilian in public statements. But actions speak louder than words. The consistent lack of minutes is a clear signal that Rodrygo has fallen down the pecking order.
Earlier in the season, his absence from the lineup raised eyebrows. Now, it seems to confirm a shift in Real Madrid’s tactical priorities.
Rodrygo is at a crossroads. Once a go-to option in crucial matches, he’s now struggling to stay relevant. If things don’t change soon, if the goals don’t return, and if the minutes don’t increase, serious questions will be asked about his future at the club.
Real Madrid may be marching on in the Club World Cup, but for Rodrygo, the spotlight is fading fast.
