Xabi Alonso compares Gonzalo to a Real Madrid legend: 'He reminds me a little'

Gonzalo is proving to be Real Madrid's big surprise during the Club World Cup that's currently taking place. Xabi Alonso chose the Madrid youth academy player in the first match against Al Hilal. With Mbappé ill and Endrick injured, he had no doubts about giving the youngster some minutes.

He has replied with goals against the Saudis and against Salzburg, assists, and good play. His involvement, his work off the ball in pressing, and his movement with the ball have made a big impression. To such an extent that it seems he's earning a spot in the first team.

Xabi Alonso was asked directly about Gonzalo after the match against Salzburg. "I'm not that surprised, I knew him very well," he said regarding his performances. What's most striking is that he compared him to another Real Madrid legend.

"He's the typical number 9 who reminds me of Raúl in many ways, always well positioned and with a strong work ethic," he said. It's a big deal to be compared to Real Madrid's legendary "7." That makes clear the potential he sees in Gonzalo and the trust placed in him within the club.

Gonzalo's future may be changing these days

Xabi Alonso arrived at Real Madrid intending to test Gonzalo during this summer. He wanted to know if he was good enough for the first team or if it would be better to loan him out so he could get more minutes. His performance may be key in making the decision not to let him leave.

However, Xabi hasn't hesitated to admit that "we need more from him and we're working to improve him." So he sees potential for him to stay in the first team next season. He also points out that "there are still no decisions about next season."

Xabi doesn't want distractions since "we're focused on the Club World Cup. The competition tells you things, but there's no decision about it," he said regarding the future. Gonzalo's performance these days could be changing his future for next season.