Xabi Alonso Draws Bold Comparison Between Real Madrid's Rising Star and Club Icon

Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has revealed that forward Gonzalo García brings back memories of legendary striker Raúl González following his impressive performances in the Club World Cup.

The 21-year-old forward, who showed promise in Madrid's youth ranks, managed to secure limited playing time last season under previous coach Carlo Ancelotti. However, his trajectory has taken an upward turn this summer with Alonso at the helm, who has deployed García as his primary striker while Kylian Mbappé remains sidelined due to illness.

García found the net in group stage matches against Al Hilal and Red Bull Salzburg, while also providing an assist in the win over Mexico's Pachuca, clearly evoking memories of one of the club's most iconic forwards for Alonso.

"I've been watching Castilla closely, not only him," Alonso shared with reporters. "Honestly, his performances don't come as a shock. He delivered similar displays repeatedly for Castilla.

"He's a classic center-forward who understands when to be patient and positions himself intelligently. He brings Raúl to mind, consistently finding the right spots, being patient for chances, creating opportunities and competing for them. I'm delighted for him, and we require more of his contributions."

With Mbappé expected to regain his place in Madrid's first eleven once he recovers from gastroenteritis, speculation has emerged about whether García will be sent out on loan or kept within Alonso's squad for the upcoming campaign.

"No determinations have been made concerning the beginning of the 2025–26 season... our attention is on the Club World Cup with our current roster. The Club World Cup provides insights, but no final decision has been reached."

As for García, the emerging striker isn't dwelling on what lies ahead and prefers to embrace the present moment.

"Being here is like living a dream, having the chance to play in this jersey, which represents everything to me," he expressed. "It's genuinely a dream realized.

"I aspire to net many more goals wearing this shirt. Right now I'm savoring this journey completely."