Kylian Mbappé has officially been handed the number 10 shirt at Real Madrid ahead of the 2025–26 campaign, signalling a bold new phase in the French star’s journey at the club.
The shirt, previously worn by Luka Modric before his departure, carries deep historical weight at the Bernabéu.
It has long been associated with artistry, vision, and leadership—qualities Real Madrid now expect Mbappé to embody as he steps into an even more central role.
A decision weeks in the making, according to Radio Marca, the change in number reflects the growing importance of the 25-year-old forward within the club’s long-term plans.
Management reportedly approved the move in advance, recognizing the symbolic and strategic value of placing the number 10 on the back of their marquee player.
Mbappé enjoyed a remarkable debut season in Madrid wearing the number 9 shirt, racking up 44 goals across all competitions.
But this latest development elevates him beyond his role as a pure goalscorer.
It places him in the lineage of footballers whose contributions define the very rhythm and spirit of the team.
He now follows in the footsteps of not only Modric but also former Madrid maestros such as Michael Laudrup, Luis Figo, and Mesut Özil—figures whose legacies are etched in creative excellence.
For Mbappé, the challenge is clear: to carve his own path among these giants.
At the same time, another generational narrative is emerging in Spain.
In Catalonia, Barcelona have handed their own iconic number 10 shirt to teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
The comparison is inescapable: two young stars, each donning a legendary jersey, each carrying the weight of expectation for their clubs’ futures.
This number switch signals a shift in Mbappé’s stature—not just within Real Madrid, but across the global football stage.
He is no longer merely a superstar striker; he is now seen as the standard-bearer for the most decorated club in European football history.
Whether the number 10 will prove as fortuitous as the number 9 remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: the spotlight on Mbappé will be brighter than ever. As Real Madrid prepare for the season ahead, all eyes will be on their new playmaker-in-chief to deliver not just goals, but greatness.
