The summer of 2025 will go down in Real Madrid's history for the jersey number change just made by Kylian Mbappé. The French star has decided to take a step forward and leave behind the number 9 he wore in his first steps as a Madridist.
Mbappé will no longer be Real Madrid's 9
Starting next season, Mbappé will no longer be Real Madrid's "9." The number he's inheriting is sure to spark controversy.
The new owner of the white "10" will be none other than Mbappé himself. This decision confirms that Real Madrid has found its new leader, the heir to the throne left vacant by Luka Modrić after his announced departure from the club.
The Croatian star had left the number without an owner and, although there were several candidates, Florentino Pérez was clear about who it should belong to.
Mbappé wanted the 10 from day one, but he arrived at the club when it still belonged to Modrić. Now, the jersey is available and the Frenchman hasn't hesitated. In Valdebebas, the new kits with his name and new number have already been ordered.
A number reserved for special footballers
The official announcement is expected in the coming hours, along with the marketing campaign reserved for the great icons.
The number change isn't just about looks. For Mbappé, it means much more: it's the symbol that he's come to make history at Santiago Bernabéu. Florentino knows it, and so does Xabi Alonso.
The "10" at Real Madrid has always been reserved for special footballers, world-class and influential in the locker room. The Frenchman has already earned that respect in just one year.
The top candidate for Mbappé's 9
Additionally, this change frees up the "9" number. Endrick could take that number when he joins in preseason, although nothing has been confirmed.
Real Madrid is entering a new era with Mbappé as its main reference. His number reflects that, too. He's no longer the new kid, no longer the star signing.
Now he's the franchise player, the one who'll carry the weight of the team on and off the field. Wearing the 10 at Bernabéu is no small detail. It's about taking on the history, the legacy, and the pressure of being the idol of millions.