Real Madrid are among the favorites to win the FIFA Club World Cup 2025—not just because of their legacy, but also due to the depth of talent in their squad. However, with Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. yet to make a major impact, head coach Xabi Alonso has directed his praise toward a different rising star.
Following Carlo Ancelotti’s departure in May, Alonso faced the challenge of quickly assembling a competitive side for the tournament. With several key players sidelined—Mbappe included, due to acute gastroenteritis—the Spanish manager was forced to turn to less conventional options, one of whom has emerged as a standout performer.
Real Madrid advanced past Juventus in the round of 16 thanks to a lone goal from Gonzalo Garcia. The 21-year-old striker capitalized on a pinpoint cross from Trent Alexander-Arnold, delivering a clinical header that once again proved decisive.
When asked about Gonzalo’s impact, Alonso didn’t hold back in his praise. “That’s what strikers are meant to do, to score, to be in the right position, in the right moment. And he did great again,” Alonso said in a post-match interview with DAZN.
“I knew him well. I’m not going to say I expected him to score 3 goals in 4 matches—I’m not going to boast—but I did expect him to wear down the center backs, to put in good work, to be relentless in his pressing,” Alonso stated. “That helps the whole team a lot, and if on top of that he scores decisive goals like today’s or the other day’s, even better. But yes, I trusted him, and he’s earning that trust,” he added.
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With goals against Al Hilal (1-1), RB Salzburg (3-0), and now Juventus, Gonzalo has tallied three goals and one assist in the Club World Cup. A product of Real Madrid Castilla, the Spanish youngster is living out his dream—and there’s no sign of it ending soon.
Gonzalo and Mbappe: Can they coexist?
With Mbappe sidelined, Gonzalo started up front alongside Vinicius Jr. in the first four matches. The French star finally made his tournament debut against Juventus, coming on in the 68th minute for Gonzalo—indicating that Alonso sees both as central attacking options.
As Madrid head into the quarterfinals and Mbappe returns to full fitness, Alonso faces a key decision: bench the world-renowned Mbappe or stick with the red-hot Gonzalo. While Gonzalo offers more of a classic center-forward presence, Mbappe brings versatility and dynamic movement. Whether the two can play together remains uncertain, but one thing is clear—Alonso will have to make tough adjustments ahead of the next match.
