Xabi Alonso Explains Rodrygo Absence, Garnacho Pushes For Chelsea Move

Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso has clarified why Rodrygo was left on the bench during Los Blancos’ narrow 1-0 win over Osasuna in their LaLiga opener on Tuesday night.

The Brazilian forward, who has been the subject of summer transfer speculation, was an unused substitute at the Santiago Bernabeu as Kylian Mbappe scored the game’s only goal to hand Madrid a winning start to the campaign.

Speaking after the match, Alonso dismissed any talk of deeper issues behind Rodrygo’s omission.

“Today was just one game. No analysis behind it. It was my decision. Rodrygo is in my plans,” the manager told reporters via Madrid Zone.

The 23-year-old winger will be hoping to feature when Madrid travel to Oviedo on Sunday, though uncertainty still lingers over his future. Arsenal and Chelsea have both been linked with a possible move, but Real Madrid are determined to keep him as part of their long-term project.

Meanwhile, Chelsea are in the middle of another high-profile pursuit, this time for Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho.

The Argentine, who reportedly fell out with United manager Ruben Amorim last season, has rejected interest from Bayern Munich and other European giants, insisting he has set his sights on a switch to Stamford Bridge.

According to Metro UK, Garnacho has already agreed personal terms with Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca’s side, though the two clubs remain apart in valuation. Manchester United are holding out for around £50 million, while Chelsea believe the 21-year-old is worth closer to £30m.

Any potential deal could hinge on Chelsea balancing their books. The Blues may be forced to sell attackers such as Christopher Nkunku or Nicolas Jackson to fund the move, with Garnacho eager to make the switch before the window closes.