Real Madrid Faces a Historic Choice: Who Will Wear the Iconic No. 9 Jersey Next?
The debate over Real Madrid’s legendary number 9 jersey has resurfaced, igniting discussions among football fans around the world. This iconic shirt, previously worn by legends like Ronaldo Nazario, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Karim Benzema, carries enormous weight at the Santiago Bernabéu. With Kylian Mbappé preparing to swap the number 9 for the No. 10, speculation is growing about who will inherit one of the most prestigious roles in modern football: the next face of Real Madrid’s attacking force.
Mbappé, fresh off a Golden Shoe-winning debut season, is set to make a symbolic transition to the No. 10, reflecting his evolution into the team’s creative fulcrum under new manager Xabi Alonso. This move not only acknowledges his growing influence but also opens the door for a new player to embrace the mantle of the No. 9—a number synonymous with goal-scoring brilliance and leadership on the field.
Two names dominate the conversation: Endrick, the €60 million Brazilian sensation, and Gonzalo Garcia, a rising talent from Madrid’s famed La Fábrica academy. Their candidacies are about more than just a jersey—they represent a clash of philosophies: high-profile Galáctico signings versus nurturing homegrown talent. Endrick, at just 18, has already been hailed as the “next Ronaldo” for his electrifying pace, clinical finishing, and fearless attacking style. Assigning him the No. 9 would signal Madrid’s intent to build their offensive future around him and capitalize on his global marketability.
On the other hand, Gonzalo Garcia, a 20-year-old product of Madrid’s youth system, offers a more cerebral approach reminiscent of Benzema’s artistry. While lacking Endrick’s raw explosiveness, Garcia has proven his quality on the biggest stages, including a standout performance at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, where he scored three goals en route to Madrid’s triumph. His technical intelligence, ability to link play, and knack for exploiting spaces make him a candidate who embodies both loyalty and tactical sophistication.
Xabi Alonso now faces a complex decision that balances symbolism, performance, and tactical needs. Endrick promises worldwide attention and commercial appeal, while Garcia represents Madrid’s historic commitment to homegrown excellence. Tactically, Alonso has hinted at a fluid system where Mbappé operates deeper, allowing both Endrick and Garcia to feature heavily regardless of who claims the No. 9. Yet, the choice of jersey will send a strong message about hierarchy, expectations, and the club’s vision for the coming years.
Fan opinions are already divided. Many argue that Endrick, as a high-profile signing, deserves immediate responsibility, while others insist that Garcia’s rise through the ranks and proven performance earn him the right to inherit the storied number. Ultimately, both players are poised to be central to Madrid’s 2025–26 campaign, where a packed schedule across La Liga, the Champions League, and the expanded FIFA Club World Cup will demand rotation, versatility, and consistency.
The No. 9 jersey at Real Madrid has never been merely a number; it is a symbol of legacy, ambition, and the weight of expectation. Whether it rests on Endrick’s shoulders or Gonzalo Garcia’s, the footballing world will watch closely, anticipating who will carry forward the storied tradition of Ronaldo, Cristiano, and Benzema. This decision is not just about talent—it is about defining the club’s future and shaping its next era of greatness.
