Gonzalo Garcia (foto: Uradni Twitter profil kluba/zveze)
Young striker Gonzalo Garcia has impressed Xabi Alonso so much during preseason that the new Real Madrid boss has blocked his loan move and made him part of his senior plans.
Real Madrid are deep into their Club World Cup campaign in the United States, and new coach Xabi Alonso is already shaping his squad with bold decisions.
While some players disappointed and others fought for minutes, 21-year-old Gonzalo Garcia stood out with his determination and sharp play, particularly during Real's 3-1 win over Pachuca. The young striker's performance reportedly forced Alonso to make a firm call: "He's key to my plans," the Spanish coach told the dressing room, according to inside sources.
Gonzalo Garcia had been close to leaving the club on loan, with teams like Getafe, Alavés, and Cádiz showing serious interest. But those plans are now scrapped. Alonso believes the forward fits perfectly into the fast-paced, club-aware squad he's trying to build.
Having come through Valdebebas, Garcia has long dreamed of success at Real Madrid. Sources close to the player say he feels "happy and ready" to make the jump to the senior side. His skill set and tactical flexibility give Alonso more depth and options in a packed forward line featuring Rodrygo, Brahim, and Endrick.
Unlike big-money signings that affect the club’s salary structure and financial fair play restrictions, Gonzalo remains a cost-effective asset. He’s still on a youth contract and offers high value without financial strain.
Last season, Gonzalo scored 25 goals in 36 matches for Real Madrid Castilla, and now he has the chance to prove himself on an even bigger stage. With Real Madrid chasing multiple trophies this season, including La Liga, the Champions League, and the Copa del Rey, Alonso seems ready to reward merit—and Gonzalo is living proof.
Madrid have already drawn 1-1 with Al Hilal and beaten Pachuca 3-1. Their final group match against Salzburg will be played on June 27. While fans eagerly await the “real” season, it’s clear Xabi Alonso has no intention of waiting to build something new.