Young Talent Gonzalo García Steps Up for Real Madrid

With Mbappé sidelined due to illness, academy talent Gonzalo García is set to take on the striker role in the debut match against Al Hilal. In light of Kylian Mbappé’s absence due to a fever, Xabi Alonso is turning to the youth academy. Gonzalo García, a forward from Real Madrid Castilla, will fill the Frenchman’s shoes in Alonso’s first lineup as head of the team. This match against Al Hilal marks García’s seventh appearance with Real Madrid’s senior team. It’s worth noting that during the previous Copa del Rey, this La Fábrica forward netted his first goal against Leganés, helping propel Real Madrid to the semifinals.

Despite that performance, Gonzalo didn’t fully integrate into the first team dynamics under Ancelotti. He only saw limited action in the final three league games against Mallorca, Sevilla, and Real Sociedad. In the clash with Sevilla, he notably assisted Jude Bellingham for the second goal. With Real Madrid Castilla, García impressively scored 25 goals in 36 matches in the Primera RFEF, securing his place as the top scorer in the category.

In recent weeks, Gonzalo has seized the chance to earn the trust of Alonso. Xabi sees him as a player filling a void left by Joselu’s transfer to Qatar. Besides Mbappé’s absence, Endrick’s situation has also paved the way for García’s inclusion in the starting lineup for Real Madrid’s FIFA Club World Cup campaign. The Brazilian suffered a hamstring injury in the penultimate game against Sevilla, sidelining him from Alonso’s plans for now. Thus, this is Gonzalo’s moment to shine.

Gonzalo is a traditional forward, honed at “La Fábrica,” known for his hunger and excellent heading ability—a classic ‘number nine’ style that remains in demand in modern football. The match against Al Hilal offers a significant chance for this young striker to make his mark and introduce himself to Real Madrid fans as the formidable finisher Xabi Alonso’s project might just need.