Real Madrid prepares for a major jersey reorganization following Luka Modric’s emotional departure from the Santiago Bernabeu. The Croatian legend’s exit after 13 remarkable years has opened up the coveted number 10 shirt, with Kylian Mbappe positioned as the leading candidate to inherit this prestigious jersey ahead of the new campaign.
Modric’s Historic Chapter Comes to a Close
The 39-year-old midfielder bid farewell to Real Madrid after accumulating an impressive collection of 28 trophies during his extraordinary tenure. Modric’s departure marks the end of a golden era that included a Ballon d’Or triumph and established him as one of the club’s most influential figures both on the pitch and within the dressing room.
This transition occurs alongside other significant changes at the Bernabeu. Carlo Ancelotti has stepped down from his managerial position, with Xabi Alonso stepping in to guide the team through the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup. These organizational shifts reflect the club’s determination to bounce back from a season that fell short of their typically lofty expectations.
Also Read: Bundesliga star moves closer to Real Madrid switch with Kroos backing
Strategic Number Change for French Superstar
Sports journalist Edu Aguirre, known for his insider knowledge of Real Madrid’s operations, revealed through El Chiringuito that the club intends to offer Mbappe the number 10 jersey. This decision represents a calculated move designed to synchronize his club identity with his France national team persona, where he already dons the same number while enhancing his commercial appeal.
Originally, Mbappe had hoped to secure the number 10 when he arrived at the Santiago Bernabeu last summer. However, Modric’s contract extension forced these plans into hibernation, leading the French striker to gracefully accept the number 9 instead. He consciously chose not to request his preferred number, ensuring he wouldn’t be perceived as creating unnecessary drama within the squad.
Exceptional First Season Achievements
Mbappe’s debut campaign wearing number 9 has been nothing short of spectacular. He captured both the European Golden Boot and Pichichi Trophy while netting 44 goals throughout the season, missing his personal best from 2023/24 by just a single strike. These outstanding accomplishments have strengthened Real Madrid’s conviction that he merits the club’s most iconic jersey number.
The ultimate decision now lies entirely in Mbappe’s hands. He faces the choice between embracing the number 10 opportunity or maintaining his current number 9, a choice that will ripple through the entire squad’s numbering system.
Also Read: Rangers manager hunt heats up as Modric considers Glasgow move
Squad Restructuring Implications
If Mbappe opts for the number 10 transfer, his vacated number 9 shirt would create an opening for another squad member. Endrick Felipe, who joined last summer and currently sports number 16, emerges as the prime contender for the number 9.
This arrangement actually mirrors Real Madrid’s initial summer strategy: number 10 for Mbappe and number 9 for Endrick, with only Modric’s extension preventing immediate implementation.
Should Endrick claim the number 9, he would become the first Brazilian to wear this number at Real Madrid since Ronaldo Nazario in 2007. The 18-year-old endured a challenging first season at the Bernabeu but remains the squad’s sole natural centre-forward. With Real Madrid showing no indication of pursuing major attacking reinforcements this summer, Endrick stands as the logical choice for this distinguished number.
Jude Bellingham presents another viable option for the number 10 shirt. The English midfielder currently wears number 5 but could be considered given his central role in new manager Xabi Alonso’s future plans.
