Club World Cup breakthrough puts Real Madrid youngster in line for bigger role next season | OneFootball

According to a recent report from SPORT, Gonzalo Garcia has made a strong impression at the FIFA Club World Cup, so much so that he could play an important role throughout the season.

With new manager Xabi Alonso placing his faith in youth, Garcia could be one of the main beneficiaries of this shift, offering an in-house solution to Real Madrid’s need for a striker with Joselu-like qualities.

Garcia’s performance in the tournament has caught everyone’s attention. After finding the net against Al-Hilal, he started again against Pachuca and made his presence felt by delivering a key assist in the 3-1 victory.

While Kylian Mbappe’s absence opened the door for Garcia to get minutes, the 21-year-old made the most of the opportunity and proved he can be trusted in high-stakes matches.

Plenty of room for improvement

At just 21, Garcia is still in the early stages of his senior career, but his recent displays show he is ready to contribute now.

Gonzalo Garcia could play a bigger role next season. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images)

Although Mbappe’s return will likely limit his chances in the central striker role, Garcia has shown he is capable of playing wide as well, adding flexibility to his profile and increasing his value to Alonso’s squad.

His performances have not only boosted his own stock but also sent a message to the rest of Madrid’s attacking unit.

In particular, his work off the ball has highlighted the kind of discipline and movement that Alonso expects from a No. 9, something even a star like Mbappe will be expected to emulate.

There would be a cost to pay

However, Garcia’s rise could come at a cost for Endrick, another highly rated young talent at the club. Endrick struggled for minutes last season, and with Garcia pushing hard for a regular role, opportunities could become even more limited.

If the current trend continues, a loan move for one of the two young strikers may become necessary to ensure they both receive enough playing time for their development.

With Garcia proving he can deliver when called upon, Real Madrid may already have the internal solution they need, without turning to the transfer market.