Mbappe Finally Speaks Out About His Controversial Real Madrid Jersey Number Switch

Global reactions pour in as Kylian Mbappé takes on Real Madrid's prestigious No. 10 jersey, with the French star himself commenting on this significant move.

Mbappé secured the coveted number ahead of Arda Güler and Jude Bellingham, taking over Luka Modrić's legendary shirt. While the 26-year-old excelled during his first season sporting the number nine, the French international now receives the privilege of wearing a jersey previously donned by the club's most successful player in history.

Real Madrid quietly updated the number change on their official website before making the formal announcement across social platforms with initial photos of Mbappé's updated jersey.

Mbappé quickly responded with his own social media post, including a preview of how the new shirt will appear on the striker for the upcoming 2025–26 campaign.

Rather than crafting an elaborate statement, Mbappé simply posted the "NEW" emoji. This message arrives just six days following the France skipper's "10" post on X.

The former Paris Saint-Germain star becomes the first player in eight years other than Modrić to sport the No. 10 for Real Madrid. Past holders of this jersey include Ferenc Puskás, Luís Figo, Clarence Seedorf and Mesut Özil.

Mbappé's new number represents a significant gesture from Real Madrid. The organization's choice to grant the prestigious No. 10 to a player who only joined the Spanish capital last year demonstrates how highly Los Blancos regard the striker, who claimed both the Pichichi Trophy and European Golden Boot last season.

Mbappé will now wear matching numbers for both club and national team. The scorer will officially unveil his new jersey on Tuesday, Aug. 19, when Los Blancos begin their 2025–26 La Liga season at the Santiago Bernabéu facing Osasuna.