Luis de la Fuente admits Garcia is “showing signs of being a player with a big future”
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has urged caution regarding the growing excitement around Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Garcia, stressing that the 21-year-old still has steps to take before a senior national team call up becomes a realistic prospect.
Garcia, who has delivered a string of impressive performances and registered four goals in five matches for Real Madrid in the Club World Cup, has been tipped for a rapid rise into Spain’s senior squad.
A call up to the senior team would mean bypassing the under-21 level, with the last player to do so being Lamine Yamal.
But De la Fuente, speaking during the presentation of Aitor Karanka as the new sporting and development director at the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), played down the idea of a fast-track route for Garcia.
“He’s showing signs of being a player with a big future,” said De la Fuente. “But we’re not just thinking about the immediate future. Gonzalo hasn’t played a single minute in La Liga yet. As they say in my hometown, you have to earn your stripes.”
The Madrid striker’s recent surge in form has generated a wave of optimism about his long-term potential, particularly because he is a product of the club’s youth team. His impressive performances have even cast a shadow on the future of Endrick – the club’s 18-year-old signing from Palmeiras – signing in the team.
“I’m pleased to see him doing well,” said De la Fuente. “And I hope there are many Gonzalos, Huijsens and Lamines to strengthen both our present and our future.”
Garcia will hope to feature for Madrid in La Liga next season after his performance in the Club World Cup. Whether or not he gets league minutes under new manager Xabi Alonso will likely determine any future consideration for the national team.
