Context: a squad under construction

Real Madrid continues shaping its squad for the 2025/26 season, with several pieces still to be finalized. While the board works on signing a midfielder to replace Toni Kroos, another dilemma is brewing: who will back up Kylian Mbappé in the attacking line?

According to AS, the club only plans to keep one of the two young strikers in the first team: Endrick (19) or Gonzalo García (21). The reason isn’t about roster limits, but rather about football development. The one left as third-choice striker could see his growth stagnate at this critical stage of his career.

Two rising stars who don’t want to leave

The problem for Madrid is that neither wants to go. Endrick’s camp has made it clear: the Brazilian has no intention of leaving, not even on loan. After arriving as a marquee signing from Palmeiras, he’s determined to make his mark with Carlo Ancelotti’s squad right away.

Meanwhile, Gonzalo García is coming off a standout performance at the Club World Cup, which has already attracted interest from Premier League clubs. Yet the Spanish forward has also expressed his desire to stay, convinced that this is his big chance to break into the first team.

A decision that will shape the future

It won’t be an easy choice. Both have potential, talent, and ambition. But in a team built to win it all, there’s no room for doubts or waiting games. Ancelotti and the board will soon have to choose: bet on Endrick’s raw power and youth, or trust Gonzalo’s present form. The future of one of them could be decided in the coming weeks.