Gonzalo Garcia Torres has become one of the standout stories of Real Madrid’s FIFA Club World Cup campaign. After equaling the Castilla goal record (25 goals) last season, Garcia has seized his chance under new manager Xabi Alonso — scoring, assisting, and making a real impression.
His recent performances have led to speculation that he may stay with the first team next season, despite initial plans for a summer sale.
Garcia Making His Case
The 20-year-old forward scored in Madrid’s opening fixture against Al-Hilal, and followed it up with a smart assist for Arda Guler in the 3-1 win over Pachuca. He’s proving himself as more than just a promising Castilla player — he’s showing maturity, link-up play, and work rate at the top level.
Garcia: “It’s Not the Time to Think About the Future”
Ahead of Real Madrid’s final group match against RB Salzburg in Philadelphia, Garcia spoke with Diario AS, offering a humble but honest take on his situation:
“No, not at all. It’s not the time. Whether I stay or not will depend on the club, the manager. It’s for the future (laughs).”
“I’ve been here for a long time. It’s a dream. The goal and desire is to be part of the first team.”
His comments confirm his desire to remain with Los Blancos, but he’s letting the management decide his fate.
Joselu Comparison and Xabi Alonso’s Impact
With Real Madrid still lacking a pure number nine, Garcia has drawn comparisons to Joselu Mato, who left the club this summer. While flattered, Garcia prefers to focus on what he can offer:
“It’s a compliment to be compared to him. Playing his role? I don’t know. It’s down to what the manager sees in terms of what I’m capable of and what I can contribute.”
The youngster also praised Xabi Alonso’s early influence:
“He instills his values and his best to achieve the maximum number of victories. We haven’t been together long, but he’s tried to instill his best to approach this competition in the best possible way.”
MadridistasZone view:
Garcia is making it very difficult for Alonso to ignore him. These performances show hunger and composure — things you can’t always teach. Whether he stays or goes, he’s shown that he belongs at the highest level. If Real Madrid are looking for a reliable backup number nine, maybe the solution is already in-house.