Gonzalo Garcia Set for Another Start as Real Madrid’s Young Striker Shines Under Xabi Alonso
Real Madrid’s 21-year-old forward Gonzalo Garcia, a product of the club’s prestigious La Fábrica academy, is expected to start for the third game in a row under new head coach Xabi Alonso when Los Blancos face RB Salzburg on June 27, 2025, in their Group H encounter at the FIFA Club World Cup.
Garcia’s emergence onto the senior stage comes at a pivotal moment for Madrid, who have been forced to reshuffle their attacking options due to Kylian Mbappé’s sudden unavailability. The French star, who joined the club in the summer of 2024 amid massive fanfare, has been sidelined by a bout of gastroenteritis. In his absence, Garcia has taken full advantage of the opportunity to impress on the world stage.
In Madrid’s tournament opener, Garcia scored a crucial equalizer in a 1-1 draw against Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal — a composed finish that showcased his striking instincts and calm under pressure. Just days later, he followed up with a sharp assist, setting up Arda Güler’s goal during a confident 3-1 win over Mexican side Pachuca. His ability to contribute decisively in both matches has rapidly elevated his status from promising academy graduate to genuine first-team contributor.
Garcia’s rise reflects Xabi Alonso’s tactical vision and coaching philosophy, which emphasizes dynamic, hard-working players who understand positional play and can adapt across multiple roles. Garcia, naturally a center-forward, has demonstrated the versatility to drift wide or drop deep, enabling Madrid to press effectively and transition fluidly between defense and attack. His intelligent movement off the ball, tenacious pressing, and link-up play have quickly made him a favorite of Alonso — and a notable competitor in a squad filled with world-class talent.
Perhaps even more telling is Alonso’s decision to start Garcia ahead of Brazilian international Rodrygo Goes, a player with Champions League pedigree and years of experience at the club. This bold choice signals the manager’s belief in meritocracy and his openness to rewarding form over reputation.
Unsurprisingly, Garcia’s breakout performances have not gone unnoticed. Several clubs in La Liga, as well as a number of scouts from top European leagues, have reportedly begun monitoring his situation closely. With Real Madrid’s attacking department set to grow even more competitive — especially with the imminent arrival of Brazilian wonderkid Endrick and Mbappé’s return to full fitness — Garcia’s long-term role at the club remains uncertain. While Alonso is known to favor retaining young talent, there is internal debate over whether Garcia’s development would be better served by staying as a squad option at Madrid or heading out on loan to gain regular minutes at a high level.
Regardless of what the future holds, Gonzalo Garcia has made one thing clear: he’s ready for the spotlight. His contributions at the Club World Cup have added a new dimension to Real Madrid’s frontline and reminded the footballing world of the continued power and promise of La Fábrica.
