Two Real Madrid players talk and gesture in the rain during a hydration break in a soccer match, both wearing black uniforms, with the scoreboard showing zero in the background.
Gonzalo García giving instructions to Bellingham | Camara DAZN
FIRST TEAM

Gonzalo went after Bellingham and told him straight after the Madrid-Salzburg match: 'Look...'

The forward asked Bellingham to send him a through ball between the center-backs, which led to the third goal

by

Alex Moreno

Gonzalo García was once again a protagonist in the Club World Cup.  The Real Madrid forward scored the definitive 3-0 against Red Bull Salzburg with a move full of class and confidence. But before the goal, there was a key moment that shows his personality and connection with the team.

During the hydration break in the 30th minute, Gonzalo went directly to Jude Bellingham. With determination, he said a phrase that was heard near the bench:  "Look at me when I make a run and play the ball in behind."

A direct instruction, with no beating around the bush. The forward wanted more protagonism and knew how to get it. He had to wait until the final minutes for that conversation to turn into a goal.

A play worth gold

In the 84th minute, after a steal from a corner against them, Bellingham threaded a pass into space. It wasn't perfect; in fact, Salzburg's center back touched the ball but didn't clear it well. That's when Gonzalo appeared—quick, smart, hungry to recover, face the goalkeeper, and finish with a masterful chip.

A finish full of class, composure, and style. A "chip" reminiscent of those by Raúl, his coach last season at Castilla. A signature move that's already becoming the young forward's trademark.

Connection that starts to work

Gonzalo and Bellingham are starting to understand each other. The academy product is bold and doesn't hesitate to ask for what he needs. Jude, the midfield leader, responds. The Englishman provided two assists against Salzburg, one to Vinícius and another to Gonzalo García.

Real Madrid players in black uniforms talk and get ready on the field under the rain while the coaching staff and other players watch from the bench.
Gonzalo García and Jude Bellingham | X

These kinds of gestures don't go unnoticed by the coaching staff. Xabi Alonso values Gonzalo's attitude. He asks, runs, finishes, doesn't shrink, has a goal, but also a voice. That, in a Real Madrid forward, always adds up.

The 3-0 against Salzburg was further proof of his growth. He not only scores, but also communicates and improves those around him. At just 19 years old, that says a lot.

Gonzalo keeps taking giant steps. If he keeps this up, soon there will be no doubt: the "9" of the future is already here.

➡️ First Team

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