Gonzalo Garcia will play his first La Liga match this season as Real Madrid prepare to host Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The 21-year-old forward, wearing the number 16 shirt enters the match under heavy scrutiny after winning the Golden Boot at the FIFA Club World Cup.
His goals in that tournament turned him into a rising figure with Madrid fans calling for his immediate inclusion in Spain’s senior squad.
That push has forced Spain manager Luis de la Fuente to respond.
In an interview with Radioestadio Noche, he urged perspective, pointing out that Gonzalo’s progress must be measured against the strength of the national team.
“I’m from a small town, and in my town, we use expressions like ‘they still need a lot of training,’” De la Fuente said.
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He noted that while Gonzalo’s promise is undeniable, selection for Spain requires more than a single breakout tournament.
🎙️Luis de la Fuente
— Radioestadio Noche (@RadioestadioN) August 18, 2025
"Soy de pueblo y en mi pueblo decimos estas expresiones como "le falta mucha mili"
"Celebro que haya muchos Gonzalos, es una gran noticia para el fútbol español; pero estos jóvenes tienen que trabajar muchísimo porque hay una selección muy buena" pic.twitter.com/CpjCmVMiJ1
The timing of these comments is crucial with De la Fuente side preparing to release his squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Bulgaria and Turkey.
Coach highlights depth of Spanish squad amid calls for youth
De la Fuente shifted tone from earlier remarks at the Club World Cup, when he first told reporters that young players must “earn the right” before joining the senior side.
This time, he welcomed Gonzalo’s rise while repeating that competition is fierce.
“I’m thrilled that there are many Gonzalos; it’s great news for Spanish football. But these young players have to work extremely hard because there’s a very strong national team,” he said.
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