Arsenal transfer target Rodrygo responds to latest Real Madrid snub with clear message

Real Madrid's latest decision regarding Brazilian winger Rodrygo may be enough to send the pulses racing of any potential transfer suitors, Arsenal included.

With the Gunners seeking refreshments throughout their attack force, rumours have flourished between London and Madrid about this particular deal being struck. Rodrygo has enjoyed an illustrious career in the Spanish capital, albeit still only 24, but before the end of the 2024/25 season saw his role diminished under Carlo Ancelotti.

A change of manager to Xabi Alonso presented an opportunity for a fresh start though for Rodrygo, it has been more of the same treatment.

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The No.11 started his fourth FIFA Club World Cup match in-a-row from the bench on Saturday night, only emerging for the final five minutes of Los Blancos' quarter final vs Borussia Dortmund. His only start was in the group stage opener against Al-Hilal almost one month ago and for two of the four times he was named on the bench, Rodrygo did not play a part at all.

Reports elsewhere suggest in retaliation to being kept out of the starting XI by Alonso on Saturday night, the player deleted a pre-match graphic posted to his Instagram profile.

However, any sign of discontent to provide Arsenal with a small speck of hope for fasttracking a deal was masked by what Rodrygo posted to social media after his side's 3-2 victory.

"We're in the World Cup semifinals. Two more to go to our goal [praying hands emoji] HALA MADRID [white heart emoji]," the caption of his Instagram post read.

So, the winger appears very much focused on the tournament and winning a 14th major honour since his move as a teenager from Brazil in 2017. Over the past eight years in Madrid Rodrygo's record reads as 270 appearances, 68 goals and 51 assists.

But there have been no strikes since March and a single assist remains his contribution at the ongoing tournament in the United States

"I'm sure Rodrygo can return to his best form. I spoke with him; he's positive, eager, and ready when needed," Alonso explained before the quarter final.

"After the game I try to approach everyone I meet along the way," he commented. "He had a few minutes [against Salzburg] that were important for him and he will be important. In these championships, sometimes those who start are just as important as those who come in.

"They can have a decisive impact, so each player has to be prepared for whatever comes their way. Everyone is in a good disposition. Rodrygo is training well and I see him in good spirits. Then it's my decision who plays."

But no matter what his manager can say or do, rumours remain rife and Rodrygo's future is uncertain as a result.

The Athletic reported most recently that Real are now willing to sanction his exit after the Club World Cup has concluded for them.