Two Real Madrid players shake hands during a substitution in a match while a referee and other people watch, with a superimposed image of a man wearing headphones and a microphone in a radio studio.
Gonzalo swapped for Mbappé and, in full, Mijatovic | Camara Real Madrid Confidencial
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Mijatovic gives Xabi Alonso, Mbappé or Gonzalo the solution against PSG: 'It would be a...

The former footballer and Madrid sporting director states that he would play Mbappé and Gonzalo as starters against PSG

by

Alex Moreno

Real Madrid are playing for more than just a spot in the Club World Cup final this Wednesday. The opponent is PSG, and Xabi Alonso's big question is clear: who should be the starting "9"?

Kylian Mbappé is now available after overcoming his stomach issue. But standing in front of him is the man of the moment: Gonzalo García. Four goals in five matches (5), top scorer of the tournament, and a confidence that keeps growing.

Pedja Mijatovic is clear about it: "Why can't both of them play? There's no need to reinvent the wheel..."

Gonzalo sparks debate at Real Madrid

The academy product has seized the opportunity. His World Cup has been outstanding. Against opponents like Pachuca, Salzburg, Juventus, and Dortmund, he has left his mark.

A Real Madrid player controls the ball in the air during a match against Borussia Dortmund while several players watch the play on the field.
Gonzalo García's goal against Borussia Dortmund | Real Madrid Confidencial

Mijatovic believes that benching him now would be a mistake. "He's on an unbelievable run. It would be a sin to leave him out," he said in a recent interview.

The possible Mbappé-Gonzalo duo would leave an unexpected victim: Vinicius. The Brazilian is not at his best. One goal and one assist in five matches (5).

Mijatovic doesn't hold back: "If someone has to sit, let it be the one who's performing the worst. This is about meritocracy."

The clash against PSG is demanding, but Pedja also believes it's the perfect time to try something different. "These kinds of matches are big stages. Especially with Mbappé just recovered," he points out.

Soccer player in a white uniform performs a bicycle kick in a match against a team in yellow and black uniforms while several players watch the play.
Mbappé scores a bicycle kick goal against Dortmund | Real Madrid Confidencial

Although he admits that putting Mbappé, Gonzalo, and Vinicius together might be too risky. "Three up front would be pushing it. But two together... that's scary."

Xabi Alonso faces his first major decision

Gonzalo's breakout has been unexpected. For many, he has completely changed the coach's script.

"Xabi has managed the locker room well. I don't think he'll hesitate if he decides to leave out Vinicius or even Kylian," says Pedja.

Gonzalo has burst onto the scene. Nobody saw it coming. Now, at just 21 years old, he has entered the conversation among the greats.

Luka Modrić could also be playing his last match with Madrid. He will say goodbye after this tournament.

"Can you imagine if he comes on and scores the decisive goal? It would be a perfect farewell", Mijatovic concludes.

The decision is Xabi's. It will be crucial. Mbappé or Gonzalo? Or both?

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