Real Madrid Stuns with Shocking Choice Between Rising Stars Endrick and Gonzalo Garcia

Real Madrid are said to be planning to retain only one of Endrick or Gonzalo García for the upcoming season, potentially paving the way for one of these promising forwards to leave the Santiago Bernabéu.

There's no question that Kylian Mbappé will serve as Real Madrid's primary striker, regardless of the tactical setup new manager Xabi Alonso chooses to implement. However, uncertainty remains about who will serve as the French star's understudy during Los Blancos' 2025–26 season.

What was initially viewed as Endrick's role has now shifted toward García following his impressive displays in this summer's FIFA Club World Cup. The homegrown Real Madrid Castilla talent contributed to goals in five of his six starting appearances and claimed the tournament's top scorer award, while Endrick was recovering from a hamstring problem.

García's breakthrough performance now leaves Real Madrid with two reserve strikers, which could prove excessive. Reports from AS suggest the Madrid club prefers to keep "just one of the pair" between Endrick and García.

Real Madrid apparently feel that whichever player remains as the third-choice forward would have "his development hindered" due to restricted playing opportunities. The only path for both Endrick and García to flourish is through regular match time, and one will unavoidably receive minimal action as Alonso's third alternative.

Following the Club World Cup performances, García appears favored to claim the reserve role. His movement, dedication, and clinical finishing skills drew comparisons to club icon Raúl during the summer tournament.

However, Endrick "believes he can impress Xabi" and hasn't abandoned hope of succeeding at the Bernabéu. The Brazilian excelled in last season's Copa del Rey, netting five times in six appearances, though he struggled to make an impact in La Liga and Champions League competition.

Nevertheless, at only 18 years of age, Endrick possesses tremendous potential. A loan move to another European club might benefit the striker's development, but Real Madrid must determine whether they're prepared to temporarily release the Brazil international or gamble on choosing him ahead of García.

The striker Real Madrid ultimately selects as Mbappé's deputy could well inherit the coveted number nine jersey.