Endrick or Gonzalo García? The Race to Become Real Madrid’s New Number 9
A number rich in history is now up for grabs at Real Madrid, and two hungry contenders are ready to make it theirs. Will it go to the Brazilian starlet brought in with huge expectations or the homegrown talent who shocked the world?
The No. 9 is up for grabs… and it’s no ordinary number
With Kylian Mbappé officially switching to the No. 10 jersey, the legendary No. 9 shirt at Real Madrid is vacant once again. After a stellar debut season—44 goals and a Golden Boot included—the club’s most iconic number is free, and the question is inevitable: who’s next?
According to a report by El Español, two names are in the running: Endrick, the Brazilian wonderkid signed for the future, and Gonzalo García, the unexpected breakout star of the Club World Cup. Two very different profiles, one shared ambition—to make history wearing the most symbolic shirt in Madrid.
Endrick: pedigree and potential
At just 18, Endrick is already familiar with the Bernabéu dressing room. While his first year wasn’t spectacular, his big-money signing clearly makes him a long-term investment. He currently wears No. 16, but everyone knows he was brought in for big things.
His raw talent, physicality and international experience with Brazil make him the natural heir—at least on paper. Still, he hasn’t fully exploded yet, and the pressure of being the “next big thing” could backfire if he doesn’t cement his place soon.
Gonzalo García: the Club World Cup surprise
Few saw it coming, but Gonzalo García defied all odds. At 20, he lit up the Club World Cup with goals, maturity and a presence that didn’t go unnoticed. He may wear No. 30, but his name is already echoing around the Bernabéu.
The club admires his composure, goal-scoring instinct, and—most importantly—his immediate impact. While Endrick is still finding consistency, Gonzalo has already made a strong case to become Madrid’s next No. 9.
A decision that could shape a new era
Wearing the No. 9 at Real Madrid is no small thing. It’s a shirt worn by legends like Di Stéfano, Hugo Sánchez, Ronaldo Nazário, Benzema, and Cristiano Ronaldo. It takes more than talent—it takes leadership, personality, and a winning mentality.
The choice between Endrick and Gonzalo won’t be easy. But whoever gets it will carry more than a number—it’s a legacy, and the future of Madrid’s attack might just depend on it.
