Real Madrid's Rising Star Shares Inspiring Words of Wisdom From Club Legend

The meteoric ascent of Gonzalo García within Real Madrid's hierarchy has drawn the keen interest of club legend, Raúl.

Real Madrid faced a significant setback when Kylian Mbappé was admitted to hospital due to gastroenteritis just as the FIFA Club World Cup commenced. The French star's absence created a substantial void in Los Blancos' offensive lineup, which Xabi Alonso entrusted the 21-year-old García to address.

The striker proved worthy of his manager's confidence, netting three times and providing one assist across his four starting appearances in the United States. In his latest outing, García secured the decisive goal against Juventus, propelling Real Madrid into the Club World Cup quarterfinals.

After Los Blancos' narrow 1–0 triumph, García disclosed to reporters that his previous Real Madrid Castilla mentor Raúl has been consistently communicating with him throughout his recent achievements.

"[Raúl] sends messages following each match. We maintain regular contact," García explained. "He offers congratulations and provides guidance in areas where I can improve."

García flourished under Raúl's tutelage at Real Madrid Castilla, finding the net 30 times in 73 outings for the reserve squad. During the team's 2024–25 season, the striker netted 25 goals, establishing a new Real Madrid Castilla milestone.

Raúl departed Real Madrid Castilla this summer following six years at the helm, yet he continues monitoring his former protégé, demonstrating the strength of his bond with García.

"I've had the privilege of sharing the changing room with [Raúl] as my coach over the past two years, and he has imparted numerous valuable lessons," García reflected.

While García's playing time may diminish with Mbappé's return, he has presented a compelling argument for a permanent spot in Alonso's roster going forward. The new Real Madrid manager has expressed nothing but admiration for García. Indeed, he has drawn comparisons between the Spaniard and Raúl, who ranks as the club's third-highest goalscorer in history.

"I'm well acquainted with [García]. I've monitored Castilla extensively and know their squad intimately. His performance doesn't surprise me. He's a classic number nine who bears resemblance to Raúl in numerous aspects: consistently positioned well and possessing exceptional work rate," Alonso remarked.