Real Madrid Hands Endrick Legendary Shirt Number in Stunning Club Reversal

Brazilian prospect Endrick has been assigned Real Madrid's prestigious No. 9 jersey following Kylian Mbappé's switch to the number 10 shirt after Luka Modrić's exit.

The official Real Madrid website confirmed the update on Friday, showing Endrick listed with the number nine alongside his name, establishing him as the new bearer of this legendary shirt. This jersey assignment also appears to diminish speculation about a potential loan spell elsewhere.

This development comes as a surprise considering recent reports suggested FIFA Club World Cup star Gonzalo García was expected to claim the number, a situation that reportedly frustrated the young Brazilian. Endrick's immediate future had been uncertain this summer amid rumors of a possible temporary move, though obtaining the No. 9 jersey may put such discussions to rest.

Additionally, with García securing a fresh five-year contract that ties him to Los Blancos until June 2030, he seemed positioned to take over the number left behind by Mbappé. Interestingly, the contract announcement made no mention of his shirt number as the Spanish player transitions from Real Madrid Castilla to the senior squad.

Real Madrid Shirt History: No. 9

The No. 9 represents a legendary number in Real Madrid's rich history, having been worn by some of football's most celebrated talents.

Mbappé, who held the number during his debut campaign at the club, succeeded Ballon d'Or recipients Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo. Indeed, CR7 initially sported the number nine before his famous switch. Prior to Ronaldo, distinguished players like Fernando Morientes, Alfredo Di Stéfano, Iván Zamorano, Hugo Sánchez and numerous other legendary figures have worn this jersey. Endrick now joins this illustrious lineage.

What Number Will Gonzalo García Wear?

García will probably adopt number 16, which was Endrick's previous number. Recent players to wear the 16 jersey include Casemiro, James Rodríguez and Mateo Kovačić. García sported number 30 during the Club World Cup tournament where he gained recognition while filling in during Mbappé's unavailability.