Arsenal handed Rodrygo boost as Real Madrid star is benched for the THIRD game in a row - as Xabi Alonso's attacking options grow to increase doubts over forward's future
Rodrygo's future has been a major talking point heading into the tournament, amid reports his performances would help dictate whether he remains at the club this summer.
The winger had appeared destined to leave Madrid after telling the club he never wanted to play for them again before choosing not to play in El Clasico against Barcelona in May.
Rodrygo felt he was behind superstar team-mates Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr and Jude Bellinghams in the pecking order and saw his role depleted towards the end of the season, as he frequently was left on the bench under Carlo Ancelotti.
New Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso appeared to offer Rodrygo a route back into the side and gave the 24-year-old a start in their opening Club World Cup match.
The Brazilian provided an assist in Real Madrid's 1-1 draw with Al-Hilal in the group stage, where he played 65 minutes.
Arsenal have been looking for attacking reinforcements during the summer transfer window
Rodrygo, however, has since seen his game time limited with Alonso naming him on the bench for the three consecutive matches.
While he came off the bench in the closing stages of their group stage win over RB Salzburg, Rodrygo was an unused substitute against Mexican side Pachuca and Italian giants Juventus on Tuesday.
Real Madrid earned a 1-0 win over Juventus to book a place in the quarter-finals, with Gonzalo Garcia scoring the only goal of the match.
Garcia, 21, has forced his way into the Real Madrid attack at the tournament after Kylian Mbappe's bout of gastroentiritis.
The Spaniard's growing role has added to the competition in forward areas, putting further scrutiny on Rodrygo's position.
Speaking ahead of the win over Juventus, Alonso maintained that Rodrygo has been training well but stressed it remains his decision as to who plays.
'After the game I try to approach everyone I meet along the way,' Alonso said. '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.
Alonso has stressed Rodrygo has been training well despite his lack of game time to date
'Rodrygo is training well and I see him in good spirits. Then it's my decision who plays.'
Real Madrid have reportedly set an asking price of €90m (£77m) for the forward with Arsenal intensely linked.
The Gunners have 'a real possibility' of completing a deal, according to Spanish outlet Cadena SER.
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Daily Mail
18 minutes ago
- Daily Mail
Who was Andre Silva who died alongside Liverpool star Diogo Jota in Lamborghini 'fireball' crash?
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The Guardian
19 minutes ago
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‘Football has lost a champion': tributes paid to Diogo Jota after death aged 28
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19 minutes ago
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SunGod Forty2s running sunglasses review: Now I understand why the pros wear them
The products or services listed have been independently tested by our journalists. We will earn a commission from the affiliate links in this article. What are the SunGod Forty2s? The SunGod Forty2s running sunglasses are surging in popularity, boosted by athletes endorsement at major events. British brand SunGod designed the Forty2s as a refined alternative to bulkier sports eyewear, great for Parkruns or marathons. At £110, they're more affordable than luxury rivals, yet pricier than basic sports shades, making them a compelling mid-market option. Key features include SunGod's advanced 8KO nylon lenses, providing up to 70 per cent greater clarity than standard polycarbonate and complete UVA/UVB protection. Frames crafted from recycled materials appeal to eco-conscious buyers. The Forty2s offer a secure, zero-bounce fit with hydrophilic nose grips that tighten as you sweat, plus ergonomic ear socks and built-in airflow vents to prevent fogging. Innovative pop-lock hinges enhance durability, while interchangeable nose pads allow customisation. With their smart design combining performance and style, the SunGod Forty2s are a standout choice for runners seeking both quality and practicality. JUMP TO: How we test running sunglasses I put the SunGod Forty2s through real world testing to see how they performed in everyday running conditions. First, I assessed fit and comfort over varied routes including sprints, long runs and hill sessions, noting if the sunglasses stayed secure or needed adjustment. The recent UK heatwave provided the right conditions to test the hydrophilic nose grips, special pads that get stickier as sweat increases, and ergonomic ear socks, which securely hold the glasses in place. For durability, I conducted a standard drop test, letting the sunglasses fall from head height onto hard surfaces, mimicking a typical mid-run fumble. 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Lens technology Score: 8/10 Although the SunGod Forty2s don't come with polarised lenses, which help cut glare, I never felt at a disadvantage, even in the brightest sunshine. For me, the real magic is in their 8KO lenses, which SunGod say are a high-performance lens technology that gives you clearer, tougher vision than the usual polycarbonate lenses. I found the dark tint on these lenses did a great job blocking 100 per cent of harmful UV rays and really took the edge off the brightness. I never once had to squint or strain to see my surroundings. SunGod insists these glasses are suitable for cycling, hiking, golf and even skiing – and I can see why. If you're like me and want eyewear that's robust and reliable enough to keep up with whatever sport you throw at it, this kind of versatility is exactly what I look for in a pair of sunglasses. Fit and comfort Score: 10/10 When it comes to comfort, a crucial factor for any runner, the SunGod Forty2s are a revelation. At just 28 grams, their featherweight design means I barely noticed them on my face, even after hours on rough trails or steep inclines. The large, moisture-gripping nose pads, which use hydrophilic material to stick better as you sweat, kept the glasses secure and bounce-free, even during the sweatiest workouts. Remarkably, there were no unsightly pressure marks left behind after long runs – a common gripe with other brands. Initially, the arms felt a touch tight, but after a few outings, they relaxed to fit my head snugly without discomfort. The Forty2s also offer interchangeable nose pads (three options included), making them adaptable for a wide range of head shapes and sizes, which is a thoughtful touch for fuss-free, personalised comfort. Durability and impact resistance Score: 9/10 The frame of my SunGod Forty2s is made from 100 per cent recycled TR90 (thermoplastic resin 90, a lightweight, flexible plastic known for being tough and impact-resistant). 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Yes, if: You want a pair of running sunglasses that allow you to see clearly in varying lights You're after comfort, style and performance No, if: You prefer polarised or coloured lenses You'd rather have smaller lenses SunGod Forty2s running sunglasses FAQs What makes the SunGod Forty2s different from other running sunglasses? The big difference with the SunGod Forty2s is that they tick every box. With ultra-clear 8KO lenses, a lightweight recycled frame, anti-fog ventilation and a secure zero-bounce fit, these won't let you down. Are the SunGod Forty2s comfortable and secure for long runs? Yes, they're ultra-light, weighing just 28 grams, and they have hydrophilic nose pads and secure arms that stay put, even during intense sweat or movement. How is the lens performance and protection? The lenses offer 100 per cent UV protection, they're scratch-resistant and they deliver perfect clarity with little to no glare. Are the Forty2s suitable for all face shapes and sizes? Yes, the Forty2s come with interchangeable nose pads and a flexible frame, so they are adaptable to a wide range of face shapes and sizes. Are the SunGod Forty2s sustainable or eco-friendly? Yes. The SunGod Forty2s are made from recycled materials and they have replaceable parts, which helps to reduce waste and improve their longevity. Are the SunGod Forty2s used by professional athletes? When you put on a pair of SunGod Forty2s, you know you're putting on a pair of sunglasses that are loved by the pros. Mahamed Mahamed, the fastest British finisher at the 2025 London Marathon wore these sunglasses, as did elite runners Anya Culling and Phil Sesemann.
