Tensions Rise at Real Madrid as Alexander-Arnold’s Shirt Choice Sparks Mbappé Ultimatum
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s arrival at Real Madrid has caused unexpected turmoil at the Santiago Bernabéu. The English defender, widely regarded as one of the top talents of his generation, made headlines with his first major move: requesting the iconic number 10 shirt, historically worn by Luka Modrić.
This bold decision reportedly triggered a strong reaction from Kylian Mbappé, who issued an ultimatum to the club: “If that happens, I’m leaving.” The conflict has not only stirred controversy among fans but also brought new tension to a star-studded dressing room.
Alexander-Arnold joined Real Madrid after his contract with Liverpool expired. According to club sources, he signed a deal through 2031, with Real paying Liverpool €10 million to secure his availability for the Club World Cup starting June 13, 2025. Though signed mainly to replace the injured Dani Carvajal, no one expected his shirt number choice to make headlines.
Wearing the number 10 shirt—previously donned by legends like Puskás, Zidane, and Modrić—is traditionally a sign of leadership and creative authority. For a right-back to claim it is unconventional. At 39, Modrić remains a respected figure in Madrid, and while his role has diminished, his legacy is tied to that number.
Alexander-Arnold, known for his passing vision and playmaking skills, may be aiming to reinvent his position under Xabi Alonso’s system. Still, Mbappé reportedly saw himself as the natural heir to the number 10 shirt and views this development as a slight.
Mbappé joined Madrid in 2024 from PSG on a free transfer, with a lucrative package including a €117.5 million signing bonus and a €15 million annual salary. His performances have been mixed so far, and Alexander-Arnold’s immediate claim to such a symbolic number has only added to the pressure.
Insiders say the shirt controversy reflects deeper issues of power and hierarchy within the squad. Alexander-Arnold, also earning €15 million a year, enters Madrid as one of the club’s top earners. Given LaLiga’s rule restricting squad numbers to 1–25, he had to choose a new shirt number after wearing 66 at Liverpool. Opting for number 10, however, was a move few anticipated—least of all Mbappé.
With the Club World Cup approaching, Real Madrid now faces an internal challenge: preserving squad unity. Media outlets from AS to Bloomberg Linea have highlighted both the strategic significance and potential disruption of Alexander-Arnold’s arrival.
Will the Englishman back down? Or will Mbappé follow through on his threat to leave? One thing is certain—Alexander-Arnold’s presence has already made a major impact, and all eyes are now on what happens next.
