In the first official match of the season, Real Madrid still exposed issues similar to those of last season: lack of squad depth, limited attacking methods, excessive ineffective crosses, etc. However, some aspects have improved, such as defensive stability and overall coordination without the ball.
Yet, these performances were achieved under Carlo Ancelotti’s continued use of the 4-3-3 formation. What’s different is that Rodrygo is no longer regarded as a key part of the plan. Since Xabi Alonso took over as head coach, it has been widely expected that Real Madrid might shift to a two-striker system, with Rodrygo set to be the main casualty of this adjustment.
Although this was not the case during the Club World Cup, over time, this judgment has gradually been confirmed—Rodrygo has indeed lost his starting spot. Real Madrid’s pre-season preparations this summer were limited, leaving little to showcase, but the match against Osasuna has made the situation clear: even in a three-forward setup, Rodrygo has failed to enter the tactical blueprint.
Meanwhile, Arda Güler has secured a starting position by switching to midfield—at least until Jude Bellingham returns. At that point, Alonso will decide whether to adjust the formation based on Güler’s performance.
Current right winger Brahim Díaz has continuously received starting opportunities, both in the friendly match against Tirol in Innsbruck and the official game against Osasuna.
Rodrygo knows that fighting for playing time under Alonso will not be easy, but he still hopes to stay and compete. However, a scene in the second half of the last match may make him reconsider: Alonso made two substitution changes in the attacking phase, replacing Brahima and Vinícius respectively, but did not choose Rodrygo on either occasion.
If Rodrygo eventually changes his mind and decides to leave, the issue of potential suitors will come to the fore. Manchester City seems like an obvious option, but with Savinho not leaving at present, the club has not created roster space for Pep Guardiola to sign the long-coveted attacker he has been eyeing.
