Mansion Sports - Kylian Mbappé is poised to don the iconic number 10 jersey at Real Madrid starting from the 2025–2026 season. 

This decision marks a significant new chapter in the career of the French superstar, who has already impressed fans and critics alike with a standout debut season in the Spanish capital.

From Number 9 to Number 10: Mbappé's Jersey Journey

Upon his official arrival at Real Madrid last summer, Mbappé was assigned the number 9 jersey, previously worn by his fellow countryman Karim Benzema. 

Although the number was not his personal favorite, the prolific forward wasted no time making an impact, netting an astounding 44 goals across all competitions in his first year with Los Blancos.

With Luka Modrić's recent departure from the club, the revered number 10 shirt has become vacant. 

Mbappé, who wore this number during his tenure at AS Monaco and currently represents France with the same, is now confirmed to be the new bearer of one of the most storied numbers in Real Madrid’s history.

Real Madrid Strategically Reserved No. 10 for Mbappé

According to a report by ESPN, Real Madrid had long envisioned Mbappé inheriting the number 10 jersey once Luka Modrić opted not to renew his contract. 

Although Arda Güler was briefly mentioned as a potential successor to the number, the club’s long-term vision always centered around Mbappé as the rightful heir.

Interestingly, ESPN also disclosed that Mbappé had been willing to wait an additional season for the number 10 shirt, had Modrić chosen to extend his stay at Santiago Bernabéu. This gesture highlights Mbappé’s deep respect for the club’s traditions and the legacy left behind by one of its most decorated players.

The Weight and Legacy of the Number 10 Shirt

Wearing the number 10 shirt at Real Madrid carries immense symbolic weight. It was famously worn by Luka Modrić, who during his 13-year tenure with the club secured a record 28 trophies—eight of which were achieved while wearing the number 10.

Before Modrić, legendary figures such as Ferenc Puskás and Mesut Özil also graced the pitch in the iconic shirt, contributing significantly to the club’s rich history. 

This legacy now falls upon Mbappé’s shoulders, bringing with it both honor and significant pressure to uphold the club's lofty standards.

Heightened Expectations for Mbappé’s Second Season

Despite collecting prestigious individual accolades in the 2024–2025 campaign—including the Pichichi Trophy and the European Golden Shoe—Mbappé fell short of leading Real Madrid to major silverware. This shortcoming amplifies the pressure on him heading into his second season, particularly now as the club’s number 10.

Given his reputation, combined with Real Madrid’s robust squad under the leadership of manager Xabi Alonso, Mbappé is expected not only to embody the identity of the club but also to guide Los Blancos back to glory on both domestic and European stages.

As the spotlight intensifies, Mbappé’s embrace of the number 10 symbolizes more than a jersey switch—it is a pledge to carry forward the legacy of greatness that Real Madrid demands.