Real Madrid leaves nothing to chance. Every detail at the white club follows a well-calculated strategy, especially if it affects the institution's global image.
This time, the matter goes far beyond the purely soccer-related. It's about a number. The number 10.
Luka Modrić has left and his number remains without an owner. Not by chance. The club has wanted to reflect calmly before assigning it, aware of the symbolic weight it carries and the impact it has on a commercial level.
Because the 10, in modern soccer, is no longer just a number on the back. It's a statement of intent.
The most media-covered number on the planet
Historically, the 10 has been the number of talent. Of the idol. Of the player who embodies magic and hope.
At Barça, they've assigned it to Lamine Yamal, a symbol of a new era. Meanwhile, at Real Madrid, Florentino Pérez wants to do the same.
Although it hasn't been released or officially discussed with the footballer, the plan of the white leadership is to assign the number 10 to Kylian Mbappé. It's not a whim. It's a strategic bet that fits with the new top-tier project and could have a huge impact on sales and global marketing.
Mbappé, the great white bet
Mbappé landed at Santiago Bernabéu with the number 9 on his back. A number that nobody had wanted since Benzema's departure and that, interestingly, Cristiano had also worn in his early days.
But the club doesn't want to settle for the 9. It wants more.
The goal is to turn Mbappé into the face of the new Real Madrid. The 10 is the perfect vehicle. It's the number worn by the most creative, the most influential, the most iconic player.
Although Mbappé hasn't expressed any preference in this regard yet, the club believes he'll end up gladly accepting it.
Güler and Bellingham, ruled out
Arda Güler was mentioned as a possible heir to that magical number. In fact, Modrić seemed willing to make him his heir. But his youth and his secondary role in the team rule out that option in the short term.
Meanwhile, Bellingham has already found his place with the number 5. A choice that refers directly to Zidane and also carries symbolic weight.
Real Madrid doesn't improvise. If Mbappé doesn't take the step or prefers to keep the 9, the 10 will remain vacant. It won't be given away.
That's another statement of intent. Better empty than poorly assigned. Better to wait for the chosen one.