Endrick vs. Gonzalo García: who will take Real Madrid’s number 9 in 2025?

Internet speculation is stirring excitement among Real Madrid fans about who will claim the iconic number 9 jersey for the 2025/26 season. Sources close to the club suggest that Gonzalo García, a 21-year-old Spanish talent from the youth academy, is the frontrunner to inherit the number, previously worn by Kylian Mbappé, who switched to the number 10. The debate, centered in Madrid, also involves Brazilian Endrick, signed from Palmeiras for 35 million euros but facing adaptation challenges and a recent injury. The discussions, amplified on social media, reflect García’s standout performance in the Club World Cup and uncertainties about Endrick’s role in the squad. The final decision rests with coach Xabi Alonso.

The choice of the new number 9 has not yet been confirmed by Real Madrid, but rumors gained traction after García’s impressive showing at the 2025 Club World Cup in the United States. Meanwhile, 19-year-old Endrick missed the tournament due to a muscle injury, fueling speculation about his standing in the team.

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• García’s performance: Scored four goals in six matches at the Club World Cup.
• Endrick’s injury: Sidelined for 8 to 10 weeks due to a thigh issue.
• Number 9 legacy: Worn by legends like Di Stéfano, Ronaldo, and Benzema.

Rumors fuel debate over number 9

Speculation about Real Madrid’s new number 9 is dominating online conversations, particularly among fans on X. Gonzalo García, a product of the Castilla academy, shone at the Club World Cup, scoring four goals in six games despite Real Madrid’s uneven campaign, which ended in a 4-0 semifinal loss to PSG. His ability to play as a classic center-forward, with physicality and precise finishing, impressed Xabi Alonso’s coaching staff.

Endrick, meanwhile, faces a transitional phase. Signed as a global sensation, the young Brazilian had an inconsistent debut season, scoring seven goals in 37 matches but with limited minutes as a starter. His injury, aggravated in May 2025, sidelined him for key moments, allowing García to seize the spotlight.

While no official decision has been made, Spanish media outlets like Marca suggest García is viewed as a cost-effective, homegrown solution, while Endrick remains a long-term investment. The final call will hinge on tactical and commercial factors.

Xabi Alonso’s role in the decision

Xabi Alonso, who took over as Real Madrid’s coach in 2025, faces the task of shaping a competitive attack for the 2025/26 season. Known for his modern tactical approach, Alonso seeks a center-forward who blends mobility with physical presence. García, with his familiarity with the club, fits the 3-5-2 system Alonso plans to implement.

• Playing style: García excels as a focal point in attack, holding up play effectively.
• Tactical vision: Alonso prioritizes a dynamic attack with two mobile forwards.
• Youth promotion: García’s selection reinforces the focus on homegrown talent.
• Commercial appeal: Endrick has global marketability, but García resonates with local fans.

The potential departure of Rodrygo, another Brazilian in the squad, also shapes the scenario. Clubs like Tottenham and Liverpool are monitoring the number 11, valued at 100 million euros, which could create opportunities for both Endrick and García.

Endrick’s adaptation struggles

Endrick, signed as one of football’s brightest prospects, is grappling with challenges in his first European stint. At just 19, the former Palmeiras star scored five goals in the 2024/25 Copa del Rey but averaged only about 23 minutes per game, reflecting the intense competition in the attack alongside Mbappé and Vinicius Jr.

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The thigh injury that ruled him out of the Club World Cup, with a return expected in September, has intensified speculation about his role. Clubs like Valencia and Olympique de Marseille have shown interest in a potential loan, though Real Madrid has ruled out a permanent transfer.

• Endrick’s stats: Seven goals and three assists in 37 games in 2024/25.
• Crowded attack: Mbappé, Vinicius Jr., and Bellingham dominate starting spots.
• Loan possibility: Valencia leads talks for a temporary deal.

Social media buzz

The number 9 debate has sparked heated discussions on social media, particularly on X. Spanish fans praise García’s youth academy roots, comparing his rise to Lamine Yamal’s at Barcelona. Brazilian supporters, however, back Endrick, citing his decisive goals for Brazil against England and Spain in 2024.

• Support for García: Local fans highlight his consistency with Castilla.
• Endrick’s defenders: Fans urge patience with the 19-year-old star.
• Rivalry comparison: García’s rise is seen as a response to Barcelona’s youth focus.
• Pressure on Alonso: Fans expect balanced squad management.

The speculation also touches on commercial impact. Endrick’s global appeal could drive jersey sales, but García’s local connection strengthens the club’s identity with Spanish fans.

Commercial strategy and number 9 legacy

Real Madrid’s number 9 is more than a jersey—it’s a symbol of stardom and history. Worn by icons like Alfredo Di Stéfano, Hugo Sánchez, Ronaldo, and Benzema, it carries immense expectations. Mbappé’s switch to the number 10, following Luka Modric’s departure, sparked the current debate, with speculation favoring García due to his tactical readiness.

The club also weighs financial factors. Mbappé’s number 10 jersey has shattered sales records, and García wearing the number 9 could boost local fan engagement, while Endrick, in the number 16, remains a future marketing asset.

Uncertain future for the attack

Real Madrid heads into the 2025/26 season with a wealth of attacking options but lingering uncertainties. Beyond García and Endrick, players like Vinicius Jr., Bellingham, Brahim Díaz, and Arda Güler vie for spots. The transfer window, closing on August 31, will be pivotal for potential moves, such as Rodrygo’s possible exit.

• Transfer window: Negotiations continue until the end of August.
• Rodrygo’s suitors: Tottenham offers 100 million euros for the Brazilian.
• Youth rotation: Alonso plans to use García and Endrick in less high-stakes games.
• La Liga 2025/26: Season opener against Getafe set for August 19.

The speculation surrounding the number 9 continues to fuel debates, but Alonso’s final decision will shape the direction of Real Madrid’s attack. As García emerges as the favorite, Endrick has a chance to prove his worth in a season full of expectations at the Santiago Bernabéu.