Rodrygo Goes didn’t play a single minute in Real Madrid’s opening La Liga match against Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabéu on Tuesday.
The Whites won thanks to Kylian Mbappé’s penalty, and Alonso opted for Brahim Diaz on the right wing. He made several substitutions in the second half, leaving Rodrygo out of the starting lineup.
This situation comes amidst reports that Alonso was unconvinced by the Brazilian international’s abilities, as evidenced by his inclusion in the 2025 Club World Cup squad for just a few minutes. However, the Spaniard confirmed before the Osasuna match that the player was in his plans and that things were different now.
After not using Rodrygo for even a minute against Osasuna, Alonso commented, “Nothing is happening between us. The Club World Cup was a different experience, and we can get through it. What matters is this season, and I’m counting on him.”
He added, “It’s just one game. We shouldn’t think about the long term. My decision today was like any other.”
Alonso also praised new signing Franco Mastrantuono, who was the first substitute in the Osasuna match, saying of the Argentine, “I thought he could contribute, and he played some good minutes. He was preparing, he wanted to, and sometimes emotions overpower the effort. He had a good impact.”
He concluded by speaking about Arda Güler, “Since we joined the team, Arda has improved significantly. Not only in terms of quality, but also in his understanding of positioning and his handling of the ball. In the first half, he was fantastic, winning back balls. We have to continue investing in Arda’s playing time so he can become an important player, and he’s already doing that.”
