Rodrygo can start packing his bags after his poor performance in the Club World Cup. In the six matches played, he started in only one. In three of them, he didn't even set foot on the field.
This reality makes it clear that Xabi Alonso doesn't count on him, no matter how much he tries to hide it publicly. After the defeat against PSG, he was very clear: "I didn't play Rodrygo for technical reasons." Words that say it all.
Florentino Pérez has taken note and has already set the asking price for the "11" in white. If an offer above €80 million arrives, he will leave. Madrid doesn't want to waste time or hinder its progress.
Rodrygo out of the starting eleven, Madrid puts him up for sale and Xabi Alonso approves the operation
The intention isn't just to cash in, but to reinvest that money immediately. The goal is to strengthen several areas that still raise doubts. The absolute priority is to complete a balanced and competitive squad.
That's why the board is working on several fronts at once. There are already two names highlighted in red to replace Rodrygo. One to strengthen the left flank and another to improve the center of the defense.
The first is close to being finalized. It's Álvaro Carreras, who plays for Benfica and has shined this season. The deal is around €45 million and the final details are already being worked out between both clubs.
Álvaro Carreras's signing almost done: Madrid gain speed on the left with the Spanish full-back
The second target also excites Xabi Alonso. We're talking about Ibrahima Konaté, Liverpool's center-back whose contract ends in 2026. The footballer doesn't want to renew, and that opens a door that Madrid wants to take advantage of.
Konaté only thinks about landing at Bernabéu. To avoid losing him for free, Liverpool is considering letting him go now. His current price would be around €30 million, a bargain for a defender of his level.
With the €80 million Rodrygo would bring in, both signings would be more than possible. There would even be room left to consider a third addition. A creative midfielder, precisely what the project lacks most.
Konaté, the target Madrid want to secure with Rodrygo's sale: a center-back with authority
Madrid knows that cycles come to an end, even for the most talented. Rodrygo has been important, but his time seems to be over. Xabi's system needs a different kind of piece.
Meanwhile, Carreras and Konaté are already waiting for the final call. Two profiles that fit perfectly with the new coach's vision. Youth, physicality, and hunger for titles: exactly what Madrid is looking for in 2025.
The plan is already in place and the machinery has started up. Now all that's left is to execute the moves without mistakes. Everything starts with Rodrygo's sale, the step that will set off the rest of the dominoes.