Real Madrid prepare for their preseason clash against WSG Tirol on August 12 at Austria’s Tivoli Stadion Tirol under new manager Xabi Alonso, who succeeded Carlo Ancelotti this summer. Amid match preparations, the club is making decisive moves in the transfer market, offering clarity on key squad members’ futures ahead of the 2025–26 campaign.
Striker Gonzalo García, 21, is poised to renew his contract with the Spanish giants, as reported by MARCA. García earned recognition during Real Madrid’s FIFA Club World Cup run, scoring four goals in six matches to propel the team to the semifinals, where they fell to Paris Saint-Germain. His breakout performances attracted interest from multiple clubs, but Real Madrid have opted to retain him, with talks underway to secure his long-term future. García is expected to serve as backup to star forward Kylian Mbappé this season.
In defense, 22-year-old Raul Asencio has rejected lucrative offers from Saudi Arabian clubs, per Real Madrid Confidencial. The center-back rose to prominence last season after filling in for the injured Éder Militão, though his inconsistent displays at the Club World Cup drew mixed reviews. Despite competition from new signing Dean Huijsen, acquired from Bournemouth, manager Xabi Alonso views Asencio as part of his plans. The player has committed to fighting for his place rather than pursuing a move abroad.
Meanwhile, Reinier Jesus will exit Real Madrid after a troubled five-year spell. The Brazilian forward, set to join Brazil’s Atlético Mineiro, openly criticized his time in Spain during an interview with AS. “I was on loan for five years. I was not happy,” said the 23-year-old, who joined from Flamengo in 2020 but never made a senior appearance for Real Madrid. He expressed relief at finding “affection” and a “project” in Belo Horizonte, stating, “I’m going to give everything on the pitch.” The transfer, though pending confirmation, marks the end of an underwhelming European chapter for Reinier.
With Alonso at the helm, Real Madrid continue balancing youth development and experienced signings, aiming to build on last season’s semifinal appearances in both La Liga and the Champions League. The club’s decisions to retain García and Asencio signal confidence in their emerging talents, while Reinier’s departure underscores the challenges young players face in breaking into star-studded squads. Preseason matches like Tuesday’s friendly will provide early insights into Alonso’s tactical vision and squad dynamics.
