Rodrygo and Franco Mastantuono Backed for Big Real Madrid Roles as Xabi Alonso Praises Duo After La Liga Win

Real Madrid’s season may only just be finding its rhythm, but already some important storylines are starting to emerge. On Sunday evening, Los Blancos collected another three points in La Liga with a win over Oviedo, but much of the post-match discussion wasn’t about the scoreline. Instead, it was about the roles handed to Rodrygo and Franco Mastantuono, two players at very different stages of their careers, both given the chance to impress from the start.

Xabi Alonso, now in charge of steering Madrid into a new era, showed faith in the Brazilian forward and the 18-year-old Argentine wonderkid by putting them into his starting lineup. While neither delivered a headline-grabbing performance, their inclusion signaled something deeper: that Alonso sees both as important parts of his evolving project at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Rodrygo and Mastantuono Given Their Chance in La Liga

For Rodrygo, the situation is complicated. The Brazilian forward has been the subject of persistent transfer speculation throughout the summer. With Premier League clubs circling and Madrid seemingly open to listening to offers, there was a sense among supporters that perhaps his time at the Bernabéu was edging toward an end. That made Alonso’s decision to hand him a start over Brahim Díaz against Oviedo all the more intriguing.

Rodrygo’s evening, however, wasn’t quite the platform he might have hoped for. While he worked hard and linked play on the left-hand side, he couldn’t find the decisive touch or killer moment to lift his performance. A few half-chances came his way, but Oviedo’s low defensive block frustrated him. By the time Alonso made his changes just over 20 minutes into the second half, Rodrygo was among those withdrawn.

For Mastantuono, this was another step in what promises to be a fascinating journey. The teenager had already been promised minutes by Alonso ahead of the Osasuna clash, and the coach stayed true to his word by involving him again. Even though he too came off in the second half, the signs were positive. His energy, left-footed flair, and willingness to engage with the game stood out, particularly given his age and limited experience at this level.

Alonso’s Public Backing for Rodrygo

Real Oviedo v Real Madrid CF – LaLiga EA Sports Rodrygo

After the final whistle, Alonso was asked directly about Rodrygo’s situation and future. His words, while measured, carried weight.

“He played a good game,” Alonso said. “They link up well on that side. He had a few shots, and it was difficult to find openings with Oviedo so deep. I liked it. We need everyone, and Rodrygo is just another one.”

The choice of words is telling. Alonso isn’t placing Rodrygo on a pedestal, but nor is he dismissing him as expendable. Instead, he is positioning the Brazilian as part of the collective—a squad player with the potential to become more if he seizes his opportunities.

Rodrygo’s talent has never been in doubt. Since arriving from Santos, he has delivered big moments in crucial matches, particularly in the Champions League. But the inconsistency that sometimes dogs his game has left Madrid fans and executives wondering whether he can be a long-term starter. Alonso, at least publicly, is backing him to play a role in this campaign.

Mastantuono: The Bright New Face at Madrid

While Rodrygo finds himself at a career crossroads, Franco Mastantuono is at the very beginning of his Real Madrid adventure. At just 18, he is already showing signs of settling in with the senior squad.

Alonso was quick to highlight the teenager’s qualities after the Oviedo game: “Franco had a great game. In a short time, he’s connected with the group and seems very integrated. He’ll give us a lot. He has great energy and a great left foot. He’ll only continue to improve within the group dynamic.”

Those are generous words, but they also reveal Alonso’s plan: Mastantuono isn’t here simply for cameos. He is being embedded into the system, into the dressing room, and into Madrid’s identity. The expectation is that he will learn quickly from those around him, contribute in flashes now, and blossom in the seasons ahead.

For Madridistas, there is excitement in seeing a young South American talent given such responsibility so early. Mastantuono may not yet be the finished product, but the glimpses of quality suggest a player who could be molded into something very special.

The Bigger Picture at Real Madrid

This season feels like a transition for Los Blancos. The arrival of Kylian Mbappé has dominated headlines, but it’s clear Alonso wants to keep building around a blend of proven stars and emerging prospects. Vinícius Júnior, Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, and Aurélien Tchouaméni are already pillars of the project. Players like Rodrygo and Mastantuono are being challenged to prove they belong in that same conversation.

The fact that both started against Oviedo speaks volumes. For Rodrygo, it is a chance to convince Alonso he deserves to stay, to show he can be more than just a squad option. For Mastantuono, it is an early sign that his coach believes in him and is willing to trust him in real matches, not just training sessions.

With Mallorca visiting the Santiago Bernabéu on August 30, both players will be eager to earn more minutes. The fixture offers another opportunity for them to stake their claims in front of the home crowd. For Rodrygo, it could be a moment to silence transfer rumors with a decisive performance. For Mastantuono, it could be the night where his star truly begins to rise.

What Comes Next for Rodrygo and Mastantuono

There is no doubt that both players represent very different stories unfolding at Madrid. Rodrygo, the €45 million signing once hailed as the next big Brazilian export, is still fighting to establish himself in a squad brimming with attacking talent. The pressure is on him to prove he can deliver consistently. If he doesn’t, Madrid may well sanction his departure in the months ahead.

Mastantuono, meanwhile, has the advantage of time and patience. At 18, he is playing with freedom, knowing mistakes will be forgiven as long as the flashes of brilliance keep coming. He has already shown enough to suggest he could be a long-term gem for the club.

For Alonso, the balance is delicate. He must guide Madrid to results in the present while also laying the foundations for the future. Backing Rodrygo and Mastantuono simultaneously is a statement of intent: both experience and youth have roles to play in his Madrid.

Final Thoughts

Real Madrid’s win over Oviedo will not be remembered as a classic, but it may yet be remembered as an important moment in the story of this season. By starting Rodrygo and Franco Mastantuono, Alonso signaled that both players are in his thoughts for the long haul.

Rodrygo has questions to answer, not least about his future in Spain, while Mastantuono has everything to gain. What unites them is Alonso’s faith, his willingness to trust them in competitive fixtures. If they can repay that faith, they may both become central characters in Madrid’s latest chapter.