Real Madrid enters a new era. With Luka Modrić passing the torch, the legendary number 10 is available, but not for long. Kylian Mbappé and Arda Güler are the two candidates to inherit it, two talents, two different profiles, one jersey, and at the center of it all, Florentino Pérez.
Number 10 is available and it's not just any number
At Madrid, number 10 is not just a number, it's history, worn by players like Laudrup, Seedorf, Figo, and of course, Modrić. It represents creativity, leadership, and hierarchy. It's not given to just anyone.
With Modrić close to retirement, the debate has already started. Who deserves to carry that weight? Mbappé, the star signing, or Arda Güler, the gem who inspires hope for the future?
Mbappé, the logical and commercial choice
Everything points to Mbappé being the chosen one. That's what Ramón Álvarez de Mon, a journalist close to the club, says. Kylian has already worn that number at PSG and still wears it with France, he feels it's his.
It's not just about sports, Florentino Pérez sees a golden opportunity in terms of image and marketing. Mbappé's number 10 will sell for millions, literally. The club would gain global visibility and strengthen its brand like never before.
It's an almost natural step. Mbappé arrives as the leader of the new project. Number 10 fits his leading role.
Arda Güler, the hope who will have to wait
But not everyone is satisfied, many saw Arda Güler as the natural heir to number 10. For his talent, his style, and what he represents. The Turk has shown, in just a few minutes, that he has something different, class, vision, magic, he's overflowing with quality.
In addition, Xabi Alonso fully trusts him, he sees him as key to his new system. In the Club World Cup he already left his mark, and in training he dazzles. However, everything indicates that he will keep number 15, at least for now.
Reason? He's young, he has time. The club wants to manage his growth calmly. It's clear that Arda is pushing for his chance and he's doing it strongly.
Squad numbers, hierarchy and a season to prove oneself
The decision seems to be made, but the tension in the locker room is real. Squad numbers are not just numbers. They're symbols of hierarchy, of the club's and coach's trust.
Meanwhile, Mbappé will take on number 10 and everything that comes with it, Arda Güler will have to shine from the shadows. Although he knows that, with hard work, his moment will come.
Number 9 is also available, and everything suggests that Gonzalo García could take it, another young player who inspires hope. Xabi Alonso has a plan: rejuvenate, compete, and win again. Florentino has already chosen, now, the field will show if he was right.