Real Madrid News
Real Madrid breakout star addresses comparisons with Joselu – ‘A source of pride’
Real Madrid’s breakout star at the ongoing Club World Cup is none other than 21-year-old forward Gonzalo Garcia.
The academy graduate has impressed with a goal and an assist in his two appearances, and with Kylian Mbappe expected to be rested against RB Salzburg, Gonzalo is likely to start his third consecutive match.
Speaking ahead of the Salzburg clash, Gonzalo admitted he is still soaking in the moment. “I’m playing with the best jersey in the world and living a dream,” he said.
The new Joselu
The young striker is not thinking too far ahead, even with speculation around his role in the squad once the World Cup ends.
“If I’m honest… I hadn’t thought about anything at all. I’m focused on the World Cup, which is what I had to play, and what has to happen will happen,” he added.
Real Madrid are reportedly on the lookout for a backup striker, a role informally dubbed “the new Joselu.” With his strong performances, Gonzalo is now a genuine contender to be Mbappe’s main understudy for the season.
“Joselu has been a great player here and a reference for me,” Gonzalo said. “I spoke to him recently and told him that people are comparing me to him. It’s a source of pride for me. I never imagined it.
“He was a striker who did really well both at Castilla and in the first team. I hope I can follow in his footsteps.”
Madridismo runs deep
Despite only having made four senior appearances under Carlo Ancelotti, Gonzalo has already had a taste of life under both Ancelotti and Xabi Alonso.
He pointed out the differences in style, but underlined a shared passion for Real Madrid.
“Each coach has his own way of seeing football—they’re very different,” Gonzalo explained. “But both are Madridistas who feel the badge.
The way they transmit that madridismo, that desire to fight for the crest, is very similar.”
Interestingly, the young forward is also juggling football with his studies, a rarity among rising professionals.
“I think everything is compatible,” he said. “It’s true I can’t keep the same pace as other students, but I like studying. Football is my priority, but it’s good to have something for the future,” he concluded.
Source: SPORT
One of the main objectives for Real Madrid this summer was to bring in a new central midfielder capable of controlling the tempo and dictating the play from the middle.
A move for Rodri was in the works before the Spain captain decided to sign for FC Barcelona. The Merengues assessed several other options, but ended up not signing any player, with Jose Mourinho deciding to use Bernardo Silva in the double pivot.
One of the midfielders that Real Madrid were looking at as an option was Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace.
The England international has been on the club’s radar for a while now, but the Premier League club never opened the door for a summer departure.
Wharton could be on the market in 2027
However, now, according to The Guardian (h/t Bernabeu Digital), That stance could change next year, as that Palace would be prepared to consider selling Wharton during the next summer transfer window.
As mentioned already, Real Madrid have closely followed Wharton’s situation throughout the summer, although the club ultimately decided against making any further additions to their midfield.
Manchester City and Chelsea also showed serious interest in signing the England international during the summer. However, Crystal Palace were unwilling to sell, effectively ruling out a move for the midfielder.
But it appears that they could open the doors for Wharton to leave in the summer of 2027, potentially paving the way for Real Madrid to make a move.
Real Madrid continue to monitor Wharton
Real Madrid are expected to keep a close eye on Wharton’s progress ahead of the 2027 market. Should they decide they need another high-quality midfielder, the 22-year-old could once again emerge as a candidate.
Manchester City may be less likely to return for Wharton after strengthening their midfield significantly this summer.
Chelsea, however, could remain a potential competitor after failing to add a player in the position during the latest window.
For now, Wharton will remain at Crystal Palace, but the club’s willingness to consider a sale next summer means the midfielder could become a realistic option for Real Madrid in 2027.
