Real Madrid's Greatest Number 10 Legends: The Ultimate Ranking Revealed
Several legendary players who wore the iconic white jersey have carried the prestigious number 10 on their backs throughout Real Madrid's history.
With Luka Modrić's expected exit following the conclusion of the 2024–25 campaign, Real Madrid's coveted No. 10 jersey becomes available for the first time in nearly a decade. The Croatian maestro represents the most recent chapter in an illustrious succession of exceptional midfield talents who have worn this legendary shirt for the Spanish powerhouse.
This distinguished number has been bestowed upon outstanding attackers and defensive stalwarts alike, establishing it as one of the club's most coveted jersey numbers season after season. The burden of representing Real Madrid in their pristine white kit carries immense expectations, but donning the No. 10 brings an entirely unique level of responsibility.
Though certain players struggled to meet the shirt's lofty standards, five individuals have successfully enhanced and preserved the No. 10's prestigious reputation at Real Madrid.
5. Mesut Ozil
Mesut Özil took over the No. 10 jersey from Lassana Diarra upon his arrival at Real Madrid in 2010. During his brief three-year tenure in Spain's capital, the German playmaker recorded 27 goals alongside an impressive 80 assists.
The creative midfielder possessed extraordinary ball control skills, consistently seeking opportunities to set up the world-class forwards in Real Madrid's attacking lineup. Özil demonstrated remarkable selflessness, providing countless assists to superstars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Gonzalo Higuaín.
Özil emerged as the most overlooked contributor during Real Madrid's historic 2011–12 La Liga triumph, where the Spanish club achieved 100 points while netting 121 goals. His instrumental contribution to that record-setting campaign secures his position among Los Blancos' finest No. 10 performers.
4. Clarence Seedorf
Clarence Seedorf arrived at Real Madrid as an established winner and maintained his victorious streak with the Spanish club. The Dutch midfielder captured a La Liga championship in his debut season with Los Blancos, followed by a European Cup in his second year and an Intercontinental Cup during his final campaign wearing the white jersey.
The former Ajax star brought a robust, physical presence that contrasted with the technical elegance of previous No. 10 midfielders. Nevertheless, Seedorf's complete commitment on the field earned him admiration from Real Madrid supporters worldwide.
Beyond his defensive excellence, Seedorf also made significant offensive contributions when needed. The midfielder concluded his three-season Real Madrid career with 55 combined goals and assists across all tournaments.
3. Luis Figo
Only an exceptional talent could represent both Barcelona and Real Madrid while maintaining such widespread respect. When Luís Figo transferred from Catalonia to Madrid in 2000, he became the club's most expensive acquisition at that time, effectively launching the Galacticos phenomenon.
Despite playing alongside stars like Raúl and Zinedine Zidane, Figo frequently served as the crucial factor in Real Madrid's triumphs. The Portuguese legend's spectacular assists and remarkable dribbling abilities elevated him among Real Madrid's elite despite his relatively brief five-year stay.
Figo's leadership qualities also guided Los Blancos to seven championships during his time there, including two La Liga titles and the 2002 Champions League crown. The midfielder remains one of only eight players to claim the Ballon d'Or while representing Real Madrid.
2. Ferenc Puskas
The fact that Ferenc Puskás has a prestigious award bearing his name speaks volumes about his greatness. The striker ranks among the finest goalscorers in both Real Madrid's history and football overall.
Puskás netted 242 goals across 262 matches for Los Blancos, positioning him as the club's sixth-highest scorer in history. However, every player ranked above him required significantly more appearances than the Hungarian legend.
The international icon's deadly finishing ability powered Real Madrid to three European Cup victories. Puskás performed at his peak during the most crucial moments; the global superstar scored seven goals in European Cup finals, an unmatched record. He also holds the unique distinction of scoring four goals in a single European Cup or Champions League final.
1. Luka Modric
Modrić stands unrivaled as the greatest Real Madrid player to wear the number 10. The Croatian achieved every possible honor in football while representing the white shirt.
The midfielder's collection of silverware alone justifies his top ranking. Modrić captured 28 trophies with Los Blancos, establishing a club record for individual achievements. His honors include an unprecedented six Champions League titles, four La Liga championships and a Ballon d'Or.
Beyond his trophy collection, Modrić's elegance and skill on the pitch transcends generations. From his sublime passing range and effortless set-piece execution to his mastery of controlling match rhythm against any opposition, the 39-year-old has established himself as Real Madrid's greatest central midfielder in history.