From Castilla to Club World Cup Hero Real Madrid’s summer headlines have been dominated by one name: Gonzalo García. The 21-year-old striker, once a quiet presence in the Castilla setup, has exploded onto the global stage after a sensational FIFA Club World Cup campaign. Scoring four goals and providing one assist in six matches, García clinched the Golden Boot and earned the trust of manager Xabi Alonso—who now sees him as a key figure in Madrid’s attacking future.
Club World Cup Breakthrough
| Match | Contribution |
| vs Al Hilal | ⚽ Goal |
| vs Pachuca | 🎯 Assist |
| vs Salzburg | ⚽ Goal |
| vs Juventus | ⚽ Match-winner |
| vs Dortmund | ⚽ Opener |
| vs PSG | ❌ No goal contribution |
With Mbappé sidelined by illness and Endrick injured, García stepped up as Madrid’s primary striker, delivering in high-pressure moments and showcasing a classic No. 9 profile: intelligent movement, clinical finishing, and hold-up play.
New Contract: Commitment to the Future
Real Madrid have officially agreed to a long-term contract extension with García, securing his services until 2031. The deal includes:
- 📈 A significant salary upgrade
- 🔐 A raised release clause (previously €50M)
- 🧾 Registration as a first-team player for La Liga
- 👕 Assignment of the iconic No. 9 shirt, previously worn by Mbappé, Benzema, and Ronaldo Nazário
Club president Florentino Pérez and manager Xabi Alonso view García as a cornerstone of Madrid’s next generation.
The No. 9 Shirt: Symbolism and Rivalry
The decision to hand García the No. 9 shirt wasn’t just tactical—it was symbolic. It marked a shift in internal hierarchy, especially amid competition from Brazilian prodigy Endrick. Though Endrick had hoped to inherit the number, García’s Club World Cup heroics tipped the scales. Endrick, now wearing No. 16, reportedly expressed frustration but has accepted the decision.
What Lies Ahead: García’s Role in 2025/26
With Mbappé now wearing No. 10 and expected to lead the line, García will serve as his primary backup. But Alonso’s tactical flexibility and Madrid’s packed fixture list mean García will get ample opportunities:
- 🏆 La Liga and Copa del Rey rotation
- 🌍 UEFA Champions League group stage minutes
- 🔄 Tactical shifts allowing dual-striker setups
Madrid’s faith in García signals a move toward internal development over external spending—a philosophy Alonso is keen to embrace.
Gonzalo García’s rise is more than a footballing story—it’s a narrative of timing, talent, and trust. From Castilla’s top scorer to Real Madrid’s new No. 9, he’s now carrying the weight of legacy and expectation. And if his Club World Cup form is anything to go by, he’s ready to deliver.
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