Gonzalo Garcia of Real Madrid
Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images
Late last night, Real Madrid officially confirmed the departure of Gonzalo Garcia from the club – a transfer that was always known as just a matter of time since the signing of Carlos Espi was made official.
Jose Mourinho’s decision to bring in Espi made it clear that one of Gonzalo Garcia or Endrick had to leave the club. Given that the former has economically superior offers and clearer suitors, it was never really in question.
The official transfer fee has not been revealed, but word has it that the club have received close to €40 million for the move. Further, they retain a part of the player’s rights as well and will be entitled to a part of any future transfer fee.
The young striker took to his Instagram after the official confirmation of his transfer and penned a letter to the club faithful on his departure.
“Twelve years have passed since a young boy’s dream became a reality,” he began, outlining how Real Madrid has always been his dream club.
Gonzalo García of Real Madrid
The academy graduates moves on to a new challenge. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
The player then wrote about how he has always given his everything for the club and how he has no regrets about any day when he was called on to defend the club’s crest.
“With the peace of mind that comes from knowing I always gave my all whenever I wore this shirt, I leave with a heart full of gratitude and the certainty that Real Madrid will always be a part of who I am.”
Garcia then thanked all the individuals across all levels who helped him in his journey to the top.
“I am deeply grateful to everyone with whom I shared unforgettable moments and who supported me during this incredible chapter of my life.”
“And especially to all of you, Madridistas, who made me feel your affection from day one until the very last. It has been a privilege I will never forget,” he added.
Gonzalo García of Real Madrid
Gonzalo’s time at Real Madrid had its highs and lows. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Finally, the striker called it the ‘greatest pride’ of his life to defend the Real Madrid crest, and concluded his message saying,
“Defending this badge has been the greatest pride of my life. Always and forever. Eternally grateful. Hala Madrid!”
Gonzalo García of Real Madrid
Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images
Real Madrid have been working hard to seal departures in recent weeks, but developments have been relatively slow given the complicated negotiations involved.
One of the players whom the club have looked to actively sell is Gonzalo Garcia, and late last night they officially confirmed the move going through.
“Real Madrid CF and Fulham FC have agreed to the transfer of our player Gonzalo García,” they stated, officially stating that the player has left the club.
While Real Madrid’s official statement does not include any information on the transfer fee involved in Gonzalo’s move to England, it has been widely speculated that the club have made a solid profit on the academy graduate.
Real Madrid have made a good profit. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
The initial speculated fee was expected to be close to €70 million, but Los Blancos did not want to lose complete control of the player’s rights.
What progressed next was a new structuring of the deal where Fulham secure only 70% of the striker’s rights for a sum of €40 million. While he will indeed be a permanent signing, Real Madrid will continue to hold some stake in the player’s future transfers.
Unlike most departures at Real Madrid which are triggered by the player either underperforming or ageing, the sale of Gonzalo Garcia is of one who was a success without doubt.
Gonzalo Garcia of Real Madrid
One of La Fabrica’s best striker talents in recent years. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
The youngster arrived at the club in 2014 when he was just 10 years of age and has been at Real Madrid for eleven years. He gradually rose the ranks, and his crowning moment came at the FIFA Club World Cup.
In the tournament where Kylian Mbappe was largely unavailable, Garcia stepped up with decisive goals game after game and made his presence known as a serious contender for a first-team place.
Last season, he may not have been a starter but he was crucial as a substitute and often left his mark when called on by the manager to make an impact. He now leaves for a starting role at Fulham and will hope to make a lasting impression that can propel his career to greater heights.