Kylian Mbappé’s role at Real Madrid might be considered indispensable, but the truth is that after the Frenchman suffered from acute gastroenteritis that sidelined him, it allowed academy product Gonzalo García to earn a spot that could create a serious dilemma for Xabi Alonso.

Logic suggested that once the French striker was available, he would reclaim the starting role as the team’s reference forward, but that hasn’t been the case. Gonzalo’s strong performance, with three goals in four matches, has given him a chance to hold onto his place (at least in this competition).

Who will start against Borussia Dortmund?

This remains an unanswered question, given the context we’ve outlined. For the upcoming Club World Cup quarterfinal match, all eyes will be on the starting lineup, where the decision on the starting forward will send a clear message.

Under this scenario, Xabi Alonso, a measured figure, will respond thoughtfully to the media when the debate about the forward position arises. The reality is that in a competition as fleeting as this one, football is about moments, and Gonzalo is currently seizing his.

What we can expect is that there will be no rush with Mbappé, as has been the approach so far, and we’ll look forward to a season where he will undoubtedly be the centerpiece of this Merengue attack.