It was only a matter of time before it became official, and today it is: Kylian Mbappé is the new number 10 for Real Madrid following the departure of legend Luka Modric, who left one of the club’s most historic jersey numbers vacant. Most surprisingly, Mbappé takes on this symbolic mantle after just one year at Real Madrid, confirming his status as an undisputed star.

Encrypted message from Mbappé about Vinícius Jr.?

In true NBA style, Mbappé has become the franchise player of Real Madrid, overshadowing Vinícius Jr., who until recently was the leading candidate for the Ballon d’Or and the face of the Merengue project. Since his arrival, Mbappé has shifted the balance within the dressing room.

While there doesn’t seem to be a full connection between Mbappé and Vinícius Jr. on the pitch, off the field they maintain a cordial relationship. However, some media outlets claim that Vinícius is uncomfortable with Mbappé’s salary, which has been one of the main obstacles to the Brazilian’s anticipated contract renewal.

Key season for Mbappé and Vinícius Jr.

With the Golden Boot in his possession, Mbappé faces a season where all eyes will be on him. Meanwhile, Vinícius Jr.’s challenge will be to regain his best form, the level that made him one of the world’s best footballers. In terms of stats, his last season left much to be desired.

Real Madrid’s announcement of Mbappé as the new number 10

Real Madrid posted an image on their social media of Mbappé in the white jersey with the number 10, while on their website, the Frenchman is now officially listed with his new number. Thus, he leaves the number 9 free and takes over from Luka Modric as the new bearer of one of the club’s most iconic numbers.

The number 10 has been worn by legends such as Luis Figo, Mesut Özil, Clarence Seedorf, Michael Laudrup, and Ferenc Puskás, and now Mbappé joins this historic list of Real Madrid players.

In the same update, the club’s website also lists defender Raúl Asencio as part of the first team, now wearing the number 17 left vacant by Lucas Vázquez after his departure.