Xabi Alonso played a key role in Real Madrid securing breakout star’s renewal – report | OneFootball

Last week saw Real Madrid secure the contract renewal of academy talent Gonzalo Garcia, extending his stay at the club until 2030.

The new deal also came with an official first-team promotion for the 21-year-old centre-forward, who will now wear the No. 16 shirt at the club for the upcoming season.

Xabi Alonso’s confidence key behind Gonzalo renewal

Now, according to Mario Cortegana of The Athletic, Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso had a big role in ensuring Gonzalo Garcia signed a new contract with the club.

Indeed, the confidence shown by the Spanish tactician in the young academy striker convinced him to pen a new deal at a time when he had no shortage of suitors.

Gonzalo made his first-team debut for Real Madrid under Carlo Ancelotti, but it was under Alonso, at the FIFA Club World Cup earlier this summer, when he enjoyed a proper breakthrough.

Gonzalo renewed his contract until 2030. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Heading into the tournament in the USA, Gonzalo was considering his future at Real Madrid, with Getafe seemingly well-positioned to sign him in the summer window.

However, Gonzalo ended the competition as the top scorer with four goals while also registering a solitary assist as Los Blancos made it to the semi-finals.

There were still doubts about whether he would get adequate minutes in the first team, especially with Endrick closing in on a return from injury. But Alonso showed faith and confidence in Gonzalo, which ultimately led to him opting to stay and renew.

Now, as mentioned above, the La Fabrica striker will wear the No. 16 shirt at Real Madrid while Endrick has been handed the #9 kit vacated by Kylian Mbappe, who moved to No. 10. Both the young forwards will compete for a spot in Alonso’s attack.