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Liverpool target Rodrygo was left seething after being hauled off at the weekend as doubts continue to swirl around his Real Madrid future.
The Brazilian winger remains in the sights of several Premier League sides during the closing stages of the transfer window. Liverpool and Manchester City are among those reportedly monitoring his situation.
Talk of a potential departure has intensified following an underwhelming beginning to the campaign under Xabi Alonso. The attacker found himself amongst the substitutes for the team's La Liga opener, and while he earned a starting berth against Real Oviedo in their second fixture, things didn't unfold as expected.
Rodrygo lasted just over 60 minutes on the pitch before making way for fellow Brazilian Vinicius Jr.
His reaction to being withdrawn was anything but composed as television footage captured him venting his frustrations to center-back Eder Militao on the sidelines before hurling his towel to the ground in anger.
The substitution proved vindicated as Vinicius provided the assist for Kylian Mbappe's strike, whilst also finding the net himself in the closing stages to seal a comprehensive 3-0 victory.
Following the encounter, Real manager Alonso offered his assessment of Rodrygo's display. He said: "He had a good game.
"On the left side, he linked up well with Alvaro (Carreras); Arda (Guler) and Kylian (Mbappe) were also drifting over there. He had a couple of shots, and it was difficult to find spaces with Oviedo sitting so deep."
Asked about the Brazilian winger's future, he added: "I liked what I saw. After last week, we need everyone, and Rodrygo is one more piece of the team."
Alonso's latest comments regarding Rodrygo follow his confirmation that the Brazilian was not close to departing the club despite failing to feature in Madrid's season opener.
Speaking previously, he said: "Rodrygo? Nothing is happening. I count on Rodrygo, of course. It's just a game, this was my decision."
Rodrygo, 24, arrived at Madrid from Brazilian outfit Santos in 2019 and has since featured in 271 matches for Los Blancos, finding the net 68 times.
During his spell in Madrid, he has contributed to three La Liga triumphs, two Champions League victories, the Copa del Rey, and numerous other honors.
The forward has just under three years remaining on his existing deal at the Santiago Bernabeu following his contract extension in 2023.
Madrid returns to action this weekend when the team welcomes Mallorca, and Alonso may provide further clarity on Rodrygo's situation through his team selection.
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