Gonzalo Higuaín, though often remembered more fondly for his spells at Napoli and Juventus, enjoyed a significant and successful chapter of his career at Real Madrid. His time at the Santiago Bernabéu, lasting from 2007 to 2013, saw him evolve from a promising young talent to a prolific goalscorer and a key figure in the Real Madrid attack. Signed as a 19-year-old from River Plate, Higuaín initially faced challenges adapting to the demanding environment of Real Madrid. Surrounded by Galácticos and seasoned professionals, he had to fight for his place in the starting eleven. His early performances were inconsistent, marked by flashes of brilliance but also by periods of frustration and uncertainty. However, Higuaín’s dedication and unwavering work ethic gradually won him the confidence of his managers and the Madrid faithful. He possessed a natural goalscoring instinct, a powerful shot, and an ability to find space in the penalty area. Over time, he developed a strong understanding with teammates like Raúl, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Karim Benzema, forming a formidable attacking unit. During his six and a half seasons with Real Madrid, Higuaín consistently contributed goals, even when competing for starting positions with other world-class strikers. He was often deployed as a super-sub, making impactful appearances off the bench and proving his worth with crucial goals. Higuaín’s most productive season came in 2009-2010, when he scored 27 league goals, finishing as the team’s top scorer ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo. This impressive form showcased his ability to lead the line and cemented his reputation as one of the most dangerous strikers in La Liga. He became renowned for his clinical finishing and his knack for scoring important goals in high-pressure situations. He won three La Liga titles (2006-07, 2007-08, and 2011-12), a Copa del Rey (2010-11), and two Supercopa de España titles (2008 and 2012) with Real Madrid. While the Champions League trophy eluded him during his time in Madrid, he consistently performed well in the competition, scoring vital goals and contributing to the team’s progress. Despite his contributions and goalscoring record, Higuaín faced constant scrutiny and competition for places at Real Madrid. The arrival of Karim Benzema in 2009 created a particularly intense rivalry, with both players vying for the starting striker role. While the competition undoubtedly pushed both players to improve, it also led to speculation about Higuaín’s future at the club. Ultimately, in the summer of 2013, Higuaín decided to leave Real Madrid and seek a new challenge at Napoli. He departed having scored over 100 goals for the club, leaving behind a legacy as a dedicated and effective striker who played a significant role in Real Madrid’s success during his tenure. While memories of his time in Italy often overshadow his Madrid career, his contributions at the Bernabéu should not be forgotten. He was a valuable asset to the team, and his goals played a crucial role in securing silverware for Los Blancos.