The legendary Number 9 shirt at Real Madrid—once worn by football icons—is currently without an owner. With Endrick and Mastantuono in the spotlight, the Santiago Bernabéu faithful are bracing for a decision that could shape the club’s immediate future. Marketing pressures, squad planning, and the ticking clock ahead of August 14 have turned this jersey saga into one of Madrid’s most intriguing storylines.
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The Empty Throne of Number 9
Few numbers in football carry as much weight as Real Madrid’s Number 9. It has been the emblem of goal machines—players who lead the attack, decide matches, and become club legends. Yet, as the new season approaches, the shirt sits in limbo.
The drama intensified after Kylian Mbappé claimed the Number 10, leaving Number 9 vacant. The early favourite to inherit it? Brazilian wonderkid Endrick. However, injury setbacks and uncertainty over his role have delayed the final call.
The Endrick Conundrum
Endrick has made no secret of his admiration for the Number 9 jersey. But circumstances have muddied the waters:
- Injury setback: A recurring hamstring problem will keep him sidelined until mid-September.
- Game-time concerns: In a World Cup year, Endrick fears losing minutes if his role isn’t clearly defined.
- Contractual whispers: There’s an open door—albeit a narrow one—for a late move if playing time isn’t guaranteed.
The club is wary of assigning the iconic number to a player whose future could change in weeks. For marketing, image, and fan connection, stability is key.
Mastantuono’s Arrival: The Deadline Factor
While Endrick ponders, Claudio Echeverri Mastantuono waits in the wings. The Argentine talent will be unveiled on August 14–15, his 18th birthday, and Real Madrid prefers to present new signings with their permanent shirt number.
If Endrick doesn’t take Number 9 before then, Mastantuono could be given the honour—or take Number 16, Endrick’s old Palmeiras shirt. The club wants clarity before presentation day, forcing a decision within two weeks.
The Marketing Chess Game
For Madrid, shirt numbers are more than squad logistics—they’re big business.
| Aspect | Impact on Marketing |
|---|---|
| Shirt with number/name | Higher fan demand, instant sales boost |
| Presentation without number | Missed merchandise sales opportunities |
| Iconic number assignment | Strengthens player branding and club’s commercial appeal |
A Number 9 shirt launch, featuring either Endrick or Mastantuono, could drive millions in revenue—especially during the summer window when fan excitement peaks.
Possible Scenarios Before August 15
| Scenario | Endrick’s Number | Mastantuono’s Number | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Endrick gets No. 9 | 9 | 16 | Most likely if Endrick commits |
| Mastantuono gets No. 9 | — | 9 | Only if Endrick’s future changes |
| Temporary delay | — | — | Avoided due to marketing pressure |
The Rare Number 25 Option
Technically, Madrid could hand out the Number 25, but La Liga rules restrict it to special cases. It’s usually reserved for a third goalkeeper and only granted to outfield players if all other squad numbers are taken. Vinícius, Rodrygo, and Camavinga have worn it in the past, but it remains an unlikely outcome here.
The Final Countdown
With the squad returning to training on August 4, internal talks between Endrick, manager Xabi Alonso, and the board are imminent. The decision will not only settle a number dispute but also set the tone for Madrid’s attacking identity in the coming season.
Until then, the Real Madrid Number 9 shirt remains the most coveted piece of fabric in Spanish football—waiting for its next owner.
Read More: Real Madrid Begin 15-Day Preseason on August 4 Ahead of La Liga Opener
FAQs
Why is the Number 9 so important at Real Madrid?
It’s historically worn by elite strikers and is a key branding asset for the club.
Who are the current contenders for Number 9?
Endrick is the frontrunner, with Mastantuono as a possible alternative.
Why is there a deadline for the decision?
Mastantuono’s presentation on August 14–15 requires a finalised shirt number.
Could Real Madrid delay the assignment?
Unlikely, as delaying could hurt marketing and merchandise sales.
Has anyone worn Number 25 at Real Madrid?
Yes—Vinícius, Rodrygo, and Camavinga have worn it in exceptional cases.
