Jersey number changes at Real Madrid, Asensio, Mbappé, Güler and more

Real Madrid is preparing for several jersey number changes after the Club World Cup. The departures of Modric and Lucas Vázquez, already confirmed, will leave numbers 10 and 17 available, which will trigger a revolution in the team's jersey numbers.

One of the most desired changes will be Kylian Mbappé's. The Frenchman, who wore number 9 in his first season as a Madridist, wants to "get back" number 10, the same one he wears with the French national team. With Modric's departure, that number becomes available, and the change is almost finalized.

Mbappé will take number 10

Since his arrival, Mbappé accepted number 9 as a temporary measure. However, his wish has always beento wear number 10, the jersey number with which he became world champion with the French national team.

Now that Modric has finished his time at the club, the Frenchman will take that number without question. This is a symbolic gesture that also strengthens his status as the team's new offensive leader.

The change also frees up number 9, and Endrick appears as the strongest candidate to inherit it. The young Brazilian would thus have the number that has always accompanied him at Palmeiras and in Brazil's youth teams. With this change, he would leave behind number 16, which he wore in his first season.

Signings already have their jersey numbers secured

Meanwhile, Real Madrid's new signings already have their jersey numbers assigned. Trent Alexander-Arnold has chosen number 12.

The reason for this choice is that 6+6, the digits of his old number, add up to 12. This way, he pays tribute to the 66 that has always accompanied him at Liverpool without breaking the rules.

The case of Dean Huijsen, who will wear number 24, is also settled. The Spanish-Dutch center-back has already been presented with that number and no changes are expected, even if there are other moves in defense.

Arda Güler could change from number 15 to 17 or 18. Mastantuono, the new Argentine signing, will receive a number from those available: possibly 16, 18, or even 21 if Brahim is sold in the summer transfer window.

Raúl Asencio, who has renewed his contract and will be a full member of the first team, must take a first-team number (up to 25) and leave behind number 35 from this season. So he could take number 4 if Alaba leaves the club.

The shuffle of jersey numbers reflects a new cycle. More youth, more talent, and more excitement for a squad in the midst of renewal.