ES
Gonzalo García, former student of SEK-El Castillo, started for the first time in a LaLiga match with Real Madrid’s first team on September 20 against Espanyol. This marks another step in the career of a footballer who, after his outstanding performance at the Club World Cup in the United States—where he was the tournament’s top scorer—earned a contract renewal and a place in the first-team squad for this season.
At 21, Gonzalo enjoyed a milestone-filled 2024/25 season that propelled him from Castilla to a permanent spot in Real Madrid’s first team. In the 2025 Club World Cup, he started all six matches, scored in four of them, provided an assist, and ultimately claimed the Golden Boot as the tournament’s top scorer.
The club was quick to recognize his talent. On August 8, 2025, he renewed his contract with Real Madrid until June 30, 2030, and his formal inclusion in the first-team roster was confirmed after signing his professional contract. He was assigned the number 16 shirt for this season, a number previously worn by Endrick.
Having come through Real Madrid’s youth system after studying at SEK-El Castillo, Gonzalo scored 25 goals in 36 matches with Castilla in the Primera Federación last season. He also experienced a standout moment with the first team in February, when he netted a crucial 93rd-minute goal against Leganés in the Copa del Rey, sending Real Madrid into the semifinals. It was his first official goal with the senior team.
With his LaLiga starting debut against Espanyol, Gonzalo has taken a step many had anticipated following his recent performances. Head coach Xabi Alonso already trusts him in important moments, as shown by his inclusion in the Club World Cup starting eleven and his selection against strong opponents.
His promotion to the first team not only signals a new sporting chapter but also greater responsibility. He will face more competition, pressure, and demands in both training and matches. However, his proven scoring ability with Castilla, combined with his outstanding performances in international tournaments, position him as one of the brightest prospects to emerge from La Fábrica in recent years.
