Jul 5, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Real Madrid CF forward Gonzalo Garcia (30) looks on at halftime against Borussia Dortmund a quarterfinal match of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

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Gonzalo Garcia Set for Real Madrid New Deal and No. 9 Shirt

Real Madrid are finalising a contract extension for rising star Gonzalo García, who is set to be integrated into the first team under new head coach Xabi Alonso. The 20-year-old forward, who emerged as the top scorer at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, will reportedly not be loaned out this season. Instead, he will stay with the senior squad and wear the iconic No. 9 jersey, recently vacated by Kylian Mbappé.

🚨 Real Madrid are in active talks over new deal for Gonzalo García.

Decision made in July about plan for striker to stay after excellent Club World Cup as top scorer.

New contract expected to be done as Gonzalo wants to stay… and wear legendary #9 shirt. pic.twitter.com/LecqxsvSUZ
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 7, 2025

According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, the club is putting the finishing touches on the academy graduate’s new contract. Gonzalo’s current deal was set to run until 30 June 2027, but Real Madrid are eager to secure his long-term future and eliminate any uncertainty over a potential loan move.

The decision to keep him at the Santiago Bernabéu comes after his standout performances during the Club World Cup in the United States, which impressed Alonso and his coaching staff. Gonzalo scored crucial goals during the tournament, and his ability to deliver under pressure has made him one of the most promising talents in Spanish football.

Gonzalo Garcia: Real Madrid’s No. 9 of the Future

One of the most symbolic elements of Gonzalo’s promotion is the assignment of the No. 9 shirt, traditionally worn by Real Madrid’s central strikers. Following Mbappé’s switch to No. 10, the famous striker’s number was left unclaimed. Despite internal discussions and the availability of other options like No. 25, the club has decided to hand the number to Gonzalo — a move that underlines the confidence being placed in him.

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The player himself has welcomed the responsibility and is prepared to take on the burden of goals that comes with wearing the number. With Real Madrid facing a transition phase in attack, Gonzalo is expected to be a vital part of Xabi Alonso’s plans, potentially leading the line in key domestic and European fixtures.

By keeping him in the first-team setup and granting him the symbolic jersey, Real Madrid are making a clear statement about their belief in Gonzalo’s potential to become one of the next great strikers in club history.