Real Madrid Stars Clash Over Coveted No. 9 Jersey as Mbappe Era Begins

Endrick and Gonzalo García are said to be vying for Real Madrid's iconic No. 9 jersey, which will become available following Kylian Mbappé's anticipated number change.

Transformation has been a recurring theme at Real Madrid in recent months. The organization brought in Xabi Alonso to replace Carlo Ancelotti, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Madrid that welcomes newcomers Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, Franco Mastantuono and Álvaro Carreras.

The Whites also said goodbye to another club icon in Luka Modrić following this summer's FIFA Club World Cup. The Croatian handed over both the captain's armband and his No. 10 jersey before embarking on a new journey with AC Milan.

This departure creates another significant shift affecting the club before the 2025–26 campaign: jersey numbers. Multiple reports and strong indications from the French star suggest Mbappé will take over Modrić's No. 10, making his current No. 9 jersey available.

Per AS, the leading contenders for this shirt are young talents Endrick and Gonzalo. Real Madrid initially considered the Brazilian as an "ideal candidate" for the number, but Gonzalo's impressive Club World Cup performance thrust him into contention.

The Real Madrid Castilla graduate featured in all six matches in the United States under Alonso, netting four goals and providing one assist. Gonzalo claimed the Club World Cup Golden Boot for his outstanding performance while covering for the unwell Mbappé.

Meanwhile, Endrick was out of action due to a hamstring problem. The 18-year-old endured a challenging first season in the white jersey and found consistent playing time elusive. Nevertheless, he delivered several memorable performances, particularly in the Copa del Rey where he scored five goals across six matches.

Being the sole natural forwards in Alonso's roster, both Endrick and Gonzalo would suit the tradition of Real Madrid's No. 9 jersey. However, the "intense" competition between these two players creates a difficult decision for the club, choosing between the teenage prodigy they previously backed or the emerging talent who exceeded expectations this summer.

The eventual winner will face the challenge of not only succeeding Mbappé's outstanding debut season wearing Real Madrid's No. 9, but also following in the legacy of club icons Alfredo Di Stéfano and Karim Benzema.