Xabi Alonso's gesture toward Rodrygo that caught everyone's attention is very revealing

Rodrygo isn't experiencing his brightest moment at Real Madrid. His role has changed in the last season with Mbappé's arrival and now, even more, with Gonzalo's breakout. That has caused him to go from being an undisputed starter to fighting for minutes.

However, Xabi Alonso hasn't given up on him, quite the opposite. He wants to get him back and his public actions prove it completely.

Against Salzburg, Rodrygo started on the bench again. He was a substitute, as already happened against Pachuca, although this time he did get minutes.

He came onto the field in the 66th minute in his favorite position, left winger, taking Vinícius's place. He played a little less than half an hour and, although he didn't shine or have a major role, his presence made it clear that he's still part of the coach's plans.

A gesture that says it all

Despite his discreet performance, there was a moment that caught everyone's attention. At the end of the match, Xabi Alonso went directly to him. He put his hand on his shoulder, hugged him warmly, and said a phrase full of intention: "I want you to keep it up, good match."

It's not common for a coach to highlight a player after a weak match, especially not so visibly. But that's the key: Xabi doesn't want to lose Rodrygo and he's doing everything possible to restore his confidence.

The message was clear and sincere. Beyond the specific performance, what Xabi values is the attitude. He knows that Rodrygo is going through tough weeks, between being a substitute, media pressure, and rumors about a possible departure.

Even so, the Basque coach supports him, encourages him, and reminds him that he's still important in the locker room.

Full trust from the coaching staff

Rodrygo started last season well, but his performance has declined. With competition increasing in the attack, every minute counts.

However, these kinds of gestures show that he still has room to reconnect with his best version. Being a substitute isn't a punishment, but part of the process.

Xabi Alonso is showing that, besides being a great strategist, he's an excellent group manager. With Rodrygo, he's making it clearer than ever.