The club’s iconic number 10 jersey, once worn by the legendary Luka Modric, would now be handed to a new player. The press conference at the Santiago Bernabéu, which had been highly anticipated, sparked intense debate among fans and pundits alike, as the successor named was someone few had expected. This bold decision marks a pivotal moment for the club as it enters a new era following Modric’s anticipated departure and a shift in leadership philosophy.
Luka Modric, the 39-year-old Croatian maestro, has been synonymous with Real Madrid’s midfield since joining in 2012. Over more than a decade, he amassed an impressive collection of trophies—including six UEFA Champions League titles, four La Liga championships, and the 2018 Ballon d’Or, breaking the long-standing Messi-Ronaldo dominance. The number 10 jersey came to symbolize vision, creativity, and leadership on the pitch. Though Modric extended his contract briefly for the FIFA Club World Cup, speculation about his successor grew as his contract was set to expire in July 2025. While Modric has expressed interest in possibly playing another season—turning 40 in September—the club is clearly preparing for life beyond his midfield brilliance.
The appointment of the new head coach, reportedly Xabi Alonso, only added fuel to the fire. A former Real Madrid midfielder and part of the club’s 2014 Champions League-winning squad, Alonso recently led Bayer Leverkusen to a historic Bundesliga title. His return to the Bernabéu is seen both as a homecoming and a sign of a bold new direction. Alonso’s coaching philosophy—focused on youth, tactical adaptability, and fresh talent—played a key role in the unexpected choice for the next number 10.
In a surprise move, Alonso named 22-year-old German attacking midfielder Florian Wirtz, from Bayer Leverkusen, as the new bearer of the number 10 jersey. Wirtz, who thrived under Alonso at Leverkusen, is regarded as one of Europe’s most promising young stars. Known for his vision, dribbling, and goal-scoring ability, he has drawn comparisons to Modric at his peak. However, the decision to pass over bigger names like Kylian Mbappé or Jude Bellingham sparked controversy. Sources close to the club report that Real Madrid is prepared to pay €90 million for Wirtz, with the number 10 jersey symbolizing the club’s trust in him to lead their midfield for years to come.
Still, the move has stirred debate. Many believed that Mbappé—Real Madrid’s marquee signing in 2024 and a prolific scorer—would claim the number 10 shirt, especially given past rumors linking him to it. Others felt Bellingham, already a key figure in the team known for his leadership and versatility, was a more natural heir. But Alonso’s decision highlights his desire to build the team around a player he knows well and trusts. Wirtz’s knack for unlocking defenses with pinpoint passes and scoring in crucial moments aligns with Alonso’s vision for a dynamic, attacking midfield.
The announcement also reignited discussions about Modric’s legacy and the weight that comes with wearing the iconic number 10. Modric himself responded diplomatically, expressing his continued commitment to Real Madrid while acknowledging the club’s need to plan for the future. His recent investment as a minority owner in Swansea City suggests he is preparing for life after football, though his immediate focus remains on leading Croatia in the 2026 World Cup and contributing to Real Madrid’s Club World Cup campaign
