Mbappe Adopts No.10 Shirt Signaling Central Role Shift at Real Madrid

Kylian Mbappe is set to change his Real Madrid squad number from No.9 to the iconic No.10 for the 2025/26 season, signaling a new phase under coach Xabi Alonso and subtly asserting his preferred playing position, as he reportedly dislikes playing as a traditional centre-forward. Meanwhile, former Real Madrid sporting director Predrag Mijatović has expressed concerns about the compatibility of Mbappe and Vinícius Júnior in the current squad, noting that both players have underperformed in the past year and emphasizing the need for club support to maintain their performance levels. Mijatović warned that accumulating high-value players without proper team balance could be counterproductive, potentially leading to dissatisfaction and difficulties in managing their futures. Vinícius Júnior, who had an outstanding 2023–24 season but declined in form during 2024–25, faces pressure regarding his contract renewal, with the club insisting he either renew by 2026 or be sold to avoid losing him on a free transfer. The club is reportedly unwilling to meet Vinícius’s demand to become the highest-paid player, particularly ahead of Mbappe, reflecting Real Madrid’s careful financial management amid squad changes. These developments underscore a transitional period at Real Madrid as they seek to optimize their attacking lineup and maintain squad harmony under the new coaching regime.