Three players in the foreground: one in a green and white uniform covering his mouth, another in the center clapping in a white jersey, and the third on the right in a white Real Madrid uniform pointing with his bandaged hand.
Gyokeres, Füllkrug and Benzema on Gonzalo García | Camara Real Madrid Confidencial
FIRST TEAM

Neither Gyokeres nor Fullkrug: Real Madrid have a new '9' and he's being compared to Benzema

Gonzalo García, number 9 for Castilla, has proven to be very complete in the box and has a strong scoring ability, but he also knows how to link up with teammates

by

Alex Moreno

Real Madrid has surprised everyone at the Club World Cup. While the market was talking about names like Ante Budimir,Viktor Gyokeres or Niclas Füllkrug, the team's new striker was already at home. His name is Gonzalo García and many are already comparing him to Karim Benzema.

The youth academy product has taken advantage of his opportunity. Xabi Alonso has decided to give him minutes in the international tournament and the gamble couldn't have worked out better.

He already left his mark with a goal in the first match.But it was in the second game, against Pachuca, where he truly won over the coaching staff and the fans.

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 silent heir

Gonzalo not only made a difference with the ball, but also showed tactical intelligence. He dropped back to receive, linked up with the midfielders, and made runs that opened up space for the wingers.

His vision of the game became clear when he provided an exquisite assist to Arda Güler. It was a subtle, one-touch pass that recalled the most refined Benzema.

He's not a typical striker who only lives in the box. He has class, composure, and understands the game like an attacking midfielder. Just like Karim did, and that comparison is no coincidence; at Valdebebas, many see him as a modern "9," capable of creating soccer as well as scoring goals.

Xabi Alonso, delighted

Real Madrid's coach is thrilled. He wanted a different kind of striker and has found one who already knows the badge.

Gonzalo is just 21 years old, but his personality on the field is that of a veteran. He doesn't hide, he asks for the ball, organizes and assists, and he also knows when to finish.

His breakthrough has been so impressive that the club is already considering halting the arrival of another "9." Neither Gyokeres nor Fullkrug are now in the spotlight. The priority could shift to strengthening other positions.

Gonzalo García has earned his place with soccer. If he keeps this up, he'll have an important role this season. In a team full of stars, a talent with Madridist DNA has emerged. The best part is that he's only just getting started.

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