Real Madrid have lacked a proper striker since last season. This was one of the main reasons the campaign unfolded the way it did. In crucial moments of important games, Los Blancos needed key goals, but they could not convert chances as they did in earlier seasons.
Los Blancos missed what Joselu provided the season before. He was a natural striker who could finish chances in ways Kylian Mbappe could not.
Real Madrid understand that this gap still exists, but they may have already found a replacement within their own ranks. Ahead of the match against Juventus, next‑season captain Dani Carvajal said Madrid have missed a Joselu‑type profile, but Gonzalo Garcia looks ready to fill the role.
The right‑back’s exact words (via Managing Madrid) were: “Of course, if we have a striker with a lot of experience it would be a big help. Last season we lacked somebody in that role, but I have to say Gonzalo Garcia looks great. If Xabi wants him to play that role, then I expect him to help us succeed.”
Real Madrid no longer need to search the market for a striker
Gonzalo Garcia is a phenomenal talent, a standout product from Castilla. He has broken academy records and impressed in the three Club World Cup games under Xabi Alonso.
He has been so effective that benching him for Kylian Mbappe right now feels questionable.
The Frenchman can certainly offer more overall, but Garcia has already adapted to Xabi’s system and is delivering results that an illness‑recovering Mbappe might not match immediately.
But again, we know that Mbappe is going to be the first choice against Garcia, and the earliest we can see that happen will be in the game against Juventus. There's a real chance that Mbappe will start the game, and if he does not, he will certainly replace Garcia in the later minutes of the game.
Real Madrid had been scanning the market for potential strikers, but that may no longer be necessary. Mbappe will still be the first choice, yet the backup option is strong.
In terms of pure striker instincts and profile, Garcia might even be better. Mbappe still needs to shed some winger habits, though he is expected to do so in time.
All things considered, Real Madrid appear set at the striker position and no longer need to look elsewhere.