Didac Aguirre Xabi Alonso's request to Mbappé after Gonzalo's breakthrough, key to winning
The changes Mbappé will have to make in his game after Xabi Alonso's recent request
The performance Gonzalo García is showing in this Club World Cup is impressive. Despite being a Real Madrid youth academy product, Gonzalo has made the most of the opportunities given by Xabi Alonso. Gonzalo's impact at Real Madrid has been so significant that Xabi, with Mbappé's return, has asked him to do more than just score goals.
Although nobody has questioned Mbappé's goal-scoring abilities, Xabi requires more sacrifice from him. Gonzalo, despite being a center forward, drops back to receive the ball, links up with the team, and creates space. These are tasks Mbappé will have to perform from now on due to Gonzalo García's emergence during this Club World Cup.
This shows the importance Gonzalo has gained in just two matches played with Real Madrid. He has been part of Real Madrid's youth academy since 2014. Gonzalo has finally managed to show his ability to support the team in more than one aspect.
The change required from Mbappé
Suffering from a severe gastroenteritis, Kylian Mbappé hasn't been able to play in the Club World Cup. After winning the Golden Boot in his debut season with Real Madrid, Mbappé hasn't managed to extend his records. In light of this, Xabi Alonso decided to give Gonzalo García a starting spot, which he hasn't wasted.
Fitting perfectly into Real Madrid's system, Gonzalo is more than just a simple center forward. By helping with Real Madrid's defensive duties, Gonzalo has proved to be a very complete player.
Although Mbappé clearly remains Real Madrid's starting forward, the Frenchman will have to change his style. Xabi intends for the whole team to help defend. Therefore, Mbappé will have to drop back to fulfill what Gonzalo has already done.
The impact of Gonzalo García
At just 21 years old, Gonzalo has shown quite surprising quality and maturity. Focused on continuing to stand out with Real Madrid, Gonzalo has started to become a slight threat to Mbappé. By forcing the Frenchman to improve and change, Mbappé will have to stand out in his new roles.
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