A man in a suit walks in front of a group of players dressed in white who are gathered with their coach in a stadium full of spectators.
Xabi Alonso giving a talk and Florentino Pérez | Camara Real Madrid Confidencial
FIRST TEAM

Florentino leaves the decision in Xabi Alonso's hands: from not having a '9' to having 2

Gonzalo García has stood out in the Club World Cup, and Xabi Alonso still has to work with Endrick, who is injured

by

Alex Moreno

Real Madrid has gone from desperately searching for a striker to finding itself with two solid options in its squad.  Gonzalo García's breakthrough at the Club World Cup has changed all the plans.

The youth academy player has started in both matches of the tournament. He scored against Al-Hilal and provided an assist against Pachuca. His performances have impressed Xabi Alonso, who sees him as ready to compete at the highest level.

Gonzalo gains points and prominence

What began as a one-off opportunity has turned into something much more serious. Gonzalo is dazzling thanks to his  character, mobility, goal-scoring ability, andin addition, he fully understands team play.

Real Madrid player celebrating a goal while the opposing goalkeeper is on the ground inside the box and the fans are cheering in the stands
Gonzalo García celebrating his goal against Al-Hilal | Real Madrid Confidencial

The sporting management is already considering making room for him in the squad. There is no shortage of offers, since several LaLiga teams want him on loan, but the decision will be made after the Club World Cup.

Florentino Pérez has chosen to leave this matter in Xabi Alonso's hands. The coach will decide whether to bet on Gonzalo or prefers to look for reinforcement in the market.

Endrick, the other piece of the puzzle

Meanwhile, Madrid also has Endrick. The Brazilian, who arrived with high expectations, hasn't been able to make his debut in this tournament yet. A hamstring injury left him out of the squad and he has stayed in Madrid.

A player kisses his jersey on the field.
Endrick celebrating a goal this season | Real Madrid Confidencial

Nevertheless, the club still trusts him. According to José Félix Díaz, Endrick is clear about his goal: to succeed at Real Madrid. "I'm sure he wants to convince Xabi Alonso," said the journalist on Rubén Martín's channel.

His departure is not being considered. But Gonzalo's good form has reopened the debate about who should be the team's backup "9".

Xabi Alonso will have the final say

The scenario has changed. From looking for a new striker in the market to having two young players with enormous potential. Now, everything depends on the coach's vision.

Gonzalo García and Endrick represent the present and the future in Madrid's attacking line. One is already shining and the other is still waiting for his opportunity. But both have what Real Madrid is looking for: hunger, talent, and a winning DNA.

Florentino observes, Xabi Alonso decides, and the summer looks more interesting than ever.

➡️ First Team

More posts: