Real Madrid hands Kylian Mbappé the number 10 shirt and could secure billions of euros with the move
In a move designed to maximize global marketing impact, Real Madrid has handed Kylian Mbappé the club’s prestigious number 10 shirt for the 2025–26 season. The decision is expected to trigger a massive surge in jersey sales, potentially generating hundreds of millions and even billions of euros in revenue.
The announcement, reported by Marca, marks a strategic pivot by the Spanish giants to further capitalize on the French superstar’s global popularity. Last season, Mbappé wore the number 9 shirt following his high-profile free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain.
Shirt Demand Already Breaking Records
Even with the number 9 shirt, Mbappé’s merchandise caused a shortage in club stores, with Real Madrid struggling to meet demand. The shift to number 10 widely considered the most iconic shirt number in football promises even greater commercial returns.
“With Mbappé wearing No. 10, we’re likely to see sales records broken worldwide,” an internal source close to Real Madrid’s commercial team told Spanish media. “He’s more than a player he’s a global brand.”
Arda Güler Considered for the Number 10
Before finalizing the decision, young Turkish midfielder Arda Güler was reportedly a contender for the number 10 shirt. The club’s board carefully weighed the marketing impact of both players. Ultimately, Mbappé’s unparalleled visibility tipped the scales.
Social media buzz had fans split, with many supporting Güler’s rise and others advocating for Mbappé to wear the club’s most legendary number. Real Madrid ultimately sided with star power and global marketability.
Mbappé’s Impact in His First Season
Mbappé joined Real Madrid in the summer of 2024 on a free transfer, ending a long-running transfer saga. Despite Real Madrid’s failure to secure major silverware last season, Mbappé delivered an impressive 44 goals and five assists, further cementing his status among the game’s elite at just 26 years old.
The French international’s presence not only lifted Madrid’s attacking threat but also reshaped the club’s marketing and branding efforts. With the number 10 now on his back, that influence is poised to reach new heights.
