Real Madrid have kicked off their preparations for the 2025/26 season with a major symbolic change Kylian Mbappé has officially been handed the club’s iconic No. 10 jersey. This move not only solidifies Mbappé’s role as the central figure at the Santiago Bernabéu but also marks a significant shift in the team’s identity heading into a new era under head coach Xabi Alonso.
Mbappé had initially been given the No. 9 shirt upon joining from Paris Saint-Germain last summer. However, with the recent departure of long-time midfielder and club legend Luka Modrić, the No. 10 jersey became available, and the club wasted no time in passing it on to their new talisman.
The No. 10 shirt at Real Madrid is steeped in heritage. Previously worn by greats like Luis Figo, Clarence Seedorf, Mesut Özil, and Raúl, it represents not only creative flair but leadership and influence. Mbappé, who also wears the No. 10 for the French national team, now carries that legacy in Madrid an alignment that reinforces his status as the face of the club moving forward.
The number change was made official by the club and quickly embraced by fans worldwide. Mbappé, in his typically understated style, confirmed the change with a one-word post on social media: “10.” The announcement was met with excitement, with fans and analysts alike interpreting the switch as a bold statement of intent from both the player and the club.
With Mbappé now donning No. 10, the No. 9 shirt is vacant once again. That number, worn previously by icons like Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo, remains up for grabs. Promising young forwards such as Endrick and Gonzalo are seen as possible successors, though no final decision has been made.
More than just a jersey swap, this change underscores Real Madrid’s full backing of Mbappé as their new leader on and off the pitch. It marks the beginning of a fresh chapter filled with ambition, leadership, and the expectation of greatness.
