Real Madrid measures its efforts against Oviedo, in a very important match to start LaLiga with good momentum. For this reason, Xabi Alonso, who wants to keep testing before the transfer window closes, has fielded an "11" that has surprised both insiders and outsiders, including Florentino Pérez. Los Blancos, who debuted with a win in the first matchday, have set themselves the obligation to win today to keep the good streak going.
Xabi Alonso's side, with good momentum, will face Oviedo in the second matchday of LaLiga. This is an important event, which will allow some of the lesser-known faces to have the opportunity to get minutes and make their voices heard.
Florentino's reaction
For this reason, Xabi Alonso has decided to field the following "11": Courtois; Carvajal, Rüdiger, Huijsen, Carreras; Tchouaméni, Valverde, Güler; Mastantuono, Mbappé, and Rodrygo. Thus, the coach from Tolosa has decided to put the Brazilian winger ahead of his compatriot Vinícius, in a surprising decision. This is Rodrygo's first start of the season, which has caused a reaction from Florentino Pérez.
"Time to rotate, he can show he has the quality to succeed at Madrid, I trust him," were the comments Florentino made in the box after learning the starting line-up. There is total and absolute trust in the team Xabi Alonso has fielded to secure another victory.
Rodrygo, only left
The situation of Rodrygo Goes at Real Madrid has taken a major turn in recent days. The Brazilian striker, 24 years old, has conveyed to Xabi Alonso a clear request: he wants to play only on the left wing. It's his natural area, where he feels best and where he believes he can show all his potential.
The Madrid coach has listened to his footballer and has given him the opportunity to prove himself in the league match against Oviedo, where Rodrygo is starting from the left. This is a significant decision, as the right wing already seems to be a defined area for Franco Mastantuono and Brahim Díaz... who have convinced Xabi Alonso with their boldness and performance.
Rodrygo, therefore, now has the mission to show he can be a difference-maker on the left side, competing with a star of Vinícius's caliber... who can also play in that area. Xabi Alonso's trust is placed in the Brazilian regaining his best form, the one that made him one of the most promising strikers in Europe.
At Real Madrid they know Rodrygo has unique qualities: dribbling, speed, and goal-scoring ability. However, he must reaffirm himself in a team with enormous attacking competition. The match against Oviedo will be his first big opportunity this season to justify his request and regain a leading role at the club.