Xabi Alonso Set to Make Crucial Decision on Real Madrid's 'Next Raul' Star
Xabi Alonso's Timeline for Determining Gonzalo Garcia's Real Madrid Destiny
Real Madrid will allegedly hold off until their abbreviated preseason concludes before advancing any transfer decisions regarding the highly coveted Gonzalo García.
Within less than a sweltering month across America, García transformed from an obscure academy prospect known only to Real Madrid insiders into what many consider Raúl's successor. Kylian Mbappé's gastroenteritis episode compelled Xabi Alonso to deploy the 21-year-old striker, who repaid his coach's faith with four strikes and one assist throughout six Club World Cup matches.
This impressive display has predictably attracted attention from numerous clubs keen to secure this emerging star's services.
Multiple La Liga teams have been rumored to propose García guaranteed minutes through a season-long loan arrangement, with Getafe president Ángel Torres openly expressing his club's pursuit earlier this month. "We established an understanding with Gonzalo six weeks ago, and should he not remain at Real Madrid, he will join Getafe," Torres stated.
García's agents have disputed the certainty in Torres's statement. AS indicates that the Spanish striker continues evaluating numerous "continuous proposals", including multiple inquiries from Premier League organizations. The publication also suggests Madrid haven't finalized García's situation yet.
Alonso plans to provide his young forward another opportunity to demonstrate his abilities during preseason, commencing for Real Madrid when players reconvene from their extended vacations on Aug. 4. To Madrid's frustration, La Liga has denied the club's requests to postpone their top-flight return, scheduled to kick off against Osasuna on Aug. 19.
García earned his opportunity due to Mbappé's unavailability but maintained his starting position even after the French star recovered during the competition. Unlike his celebrated teammates, García demonstrates willingness to sprint throughout the attacking zone regardless of ball possession. This summer, the industrious Spaniard recorded one successful tackle per 90 minutes. Vinicius Junior and Mbappé collectively played 581 minutes during the Club World Cup without regaining possession even once.