Mbappé to wear two separate kit numbers for Real in first two seasons

With Kylian Mbappé officially joining Real Madrid, the club has confirmed that he will wear the iconic number 9 jersey next season. This number, steeped in history, has been worn by legends such as Alfredo Di Stéfano, Ronaldo Nazario, and most recently, Karim Benzema.

 A Legacy of Greatness

The number 9 shirt at Real Madrid is synonymous with greatness. Alfredo Di Stéfano set the standard in the 1950s, and since then, it has been worn by football icons like Santillana, Hugo Sánchez, Zamorano, Suker, Morientes, and Ronaldo Nazario. Most recently, Karim Benzema made the number his own from 2010 until his departure in 2023 to Saudi Arabia. Last season, the number 9 remained vacant, leaving a void that Mbappé is now poised to fill.

 Mbappé’s Number Journey

Mbappé’s choice of the number 9 for his first season at Real Madrid is significant. Throughout his career, he has worn various numbers, including 12, 20, and 29 during his time at Monaco and PSG.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Kylian Mbappé will wear the number 9 shirt in his first season at Real Madrid. Subsequently, Luka Modric is leaning towards retiring from club football after the 2024/2025 season. Kylian will then be expected to take over the number 10 short from the midfield maestro.

For the French national team, the 25-year-old typically wears number 10. (Photo via Lucas Deslangles)

The number 7, another of Mbappé’s former numbers at PSG, is currently worn by Vinicius Junior. This further cements the decision for Mbappé to adopt the number 9, following in the footsteps of Cristiano Ronaldo, who wore it during his debut season with Real Madrid in 2009-10 before switching to number 7.

Future Prospects for Squad Numbers

Young Brazilian talent Endrick, who has also joined Real Madrid, will wear number 16 for his debut season. This number was his first at Palmeiras and was recently vacated by Álvaro Odriozola. As the season progresses and with potential transfers in and out of the club, the squad numbers could see more changes.

 Anticipation and Expectations

Mbappé’s arrival and his assignment of the number 9 jersey symbolize a new era for Real Madrid’s attack. Fans are hopeful that Mbappé will live up to the legacy of this iconic number, delivering performances that echo the prowess of his predecessors. With his incredible speed, skill, and goal-scoring ability, Mbappé is expected to make a significant impact on the team’s success.

As the new season approaches, Real Madrid supporters are buzzing with excitement at the prospect of seeing Mbappé in action, donning the number 9 jersey. The stage is set for one of the best players in the world to write the next chapter in the storied history of Real Madrid.