Real Madrid have officially confirmed that Brazilian striker Endrick will inherit the legendary No. 9 shirt for the 2025-26 season, marking a significant vote of confidence from new manager Xabi Alonso. The 19-year-old has beaten academy star Gonzalo García to the iconic number, signaling his elevated status within the squad hierarchy at the Santiago Bernabéu.
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Real Madrid Make Historic Number 9 Decision as Endrick Claims Legendary Jersey
After weeks of intense speculation, Madrid have ended the debate surrounding their vacant No. 9 shirt by officially awarding it to Brazilian sensation Endrick. The decision represents a major statement of faith in the young striker’s potential under Xabi Alonso’s new regime.
Official Confirmation and Squad Number Allocation
The announcement confirms that Endrick will succeed Kylian Mbappé as the holder of the No. 9 shirt, with the French superstar having moved to No. 10 following Luka Modrić’s departure. Meanwhile, Gonzalo García, who was considered the primary alternative candidate, will take over Endrick’s former No. 16 jersey.
| Jersey Assignment Details | Information |
|---|---|
| New No. 9 | Endrick Felipe |
| Previous No. 9 | Kylian Mbappé (moved to No. 10) |
| New No. 16 | Gonzalo García |
| Previous No. 16 | Endrick Felipe |
| Decision Maker | Xabi Alonso |
| Season | 2025-26 |
The decision was made following Gonzalo García’s contract renewal until 2030 and his promotion to the first team, demonstrating Real Madrid’s commitment to developing both young talents within their squad structure.
The No. 9 Legacy at Real Madrid
Following in Legendary Footsteps
Endrick’s appointment to the No. 9 shirt places him in illustrious company at Real Madrid. The jersey has been worn by some of the greatest strikers in football history, creating a rich legacy that the Brazilian must now uphold.
Historic No. 9 Holders at Real Madrid:
- Ronaldo Nazário (O Fenômeno) – Brazilian legend
- Cristiano Ronaldo – Portuguese superstar
- Karim Benzema – French striker and Ballon d’Or winner
- Kylian Mbappé – Most recent holder (2024-25)
The decision to hand Endrick this iconic number reflects Real Madrid’s belief that he possesses the talent and mentality to continue this distinguished tradition.
Endrick’s Journey to the Number 9
From Palmeiras Prodigy to Real Madrid Star
Endrick’s path to earning the No. 9 shirt has been remarkable. The striker joined Real Madrid from Palmeiras in July 2024 for a fee reported between €35-60 million, making him one of the most expensive teenage signings in football history.
| Endrick’s Career Timeline | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 19 years old (born July 21, 2006) |
| Youth Career | Palmeiras (165 goals in 169 youth games) |
| Professional Debut | Palmeiras (October 2022, aged 16) |
| Real Madrid Signing | July 2024 (€35-60M transfer) |
| Debut Season Stats | 7 goals, 1 assist in limited minutes |
| Contract Length | Until June 2030 |
During his debut season at Real Madrid, Endrick wore the No. 16 shirt and managed seven goals and one assist despite limited playing time under Carlo Ancelotti. His ability to make an impact in minimal minutes impressed the coaching staff and demonstrated his readiness for increased responsibility.
The Competition with Gonzalo García
The battle for the No. 9 shirt created significant intrigue throughout the summer. Gonzalo García, a product of Real Madrid’s academy system, emerged as a strong contender following his exceptional performances at the FIFA Club World Cup, where he scored four goals and earned the Golden Boot.
García’s credentials included:
- 25 goals for Real Madrid Castilla in the 2024-25 season
- Top scorer in Primera Federación
- Four goals at the Club World Cup
- Contract extension until 2030
Despite García’s impressive form, Real Madrid’s decision to award Endrick the No. 9 demonstrates their long-term vision for the Brazilian striker.
Xabi Alonso’s Vision and Tactical Plans
New Manager’s Faith in Youth
Xabi Alonso’s appointment as Real Madrid manager has brought fresh perspectives on squad management and player development. The Spanish coach’s decision to award Endrick the No. 9 shirt signals his intention to provide the Brazilian with increased opportunities.
Sources suggest Alonso plans to give Endrick significantly more playing time than he received under Carlo Ancelotti, recognizing his potential to become a key attacking weapon for Real Madrid’s future.
Tactical Integration and Role
Under Alonso’s system, Endrick is expected to play a more prominent role in Real Madrid’s attacking setup. His versatility allows him to operate as:
- Central Striker: Leading the line in a traditional No. 9 role
- Second Striker: Supporting a more advanced forward
- Wide Forward: Providing pace and directness from wider positions
The manager’s tactical approach emphasizes youth development while maintaining Real Madrid’s winning mentality, making Endrick’s elevation a perfect fit for this philosophy.
Current Status and Recovery Timeline
Injury Update and Return Schedule
Endrick’s preparation for the new season has been complicated by a hamstring injury sustained in May 2025. The Brazilian suffered a right hamstring-tendon injury that ruled him out of the FIFA Club World Cup and has kept him sidelined through the early stages of pre-season.
| Injury Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Injury Type | Right hamstring-tendon |
| Date of Injury | May 21, 2025 |
| Expected Return | Early September 2025 |
| Games Missed | FIFA Club World Cup |
| Current Status | Individual training program |
Real Madrid’s medical team diagnosed the injury as requiring at least two months of recovery, but Endrick is expected to return to full training in early September, just in time for the season’s opening fixtures.
Real Madrid’s Strategic Youth Development
Investment in Future Stars
The decision to award Endrick the No. 9 shirt reflects Real Madrid’s broader strategy of investing in exceptional young talent. The club’s approach combines immediate competitive needs with long-term planning for sustained success.
Recent Youth Investments:
- Endrick (€35-60M from Palmeiras)
- Gonzalo García (academy graduate, new contract)
- Franco Mastantuono (expected arrival)
- Various La Fábrica promotions
This strategy aims to create a sustainable model where young talents can develop within Real Madrid’s winning culture while contributing to immediate success.
Competition and Squad Depth
With Endrick’s elevation to No. 9, Real Madrid now possess multiple attacking options across different age groups and playing styles:
Attacking Hierarchy:
- Kylian Mbappé – Established superstar (No. 10)
- Endrick – Rising talent (No. 9)
- Gonzalo García – Academy graduate (No. 16)
This depth provides Xabi Alonso with tactical flexibility while ensuring healthy competition for places throughout the squad.
International Career and Future Prospects
Brazil National Team Ambitions
Endrick’s elevation at Real Madrid enhances his prospects of becoming a regular for the Brazil national team. His international career began impressively, making his senior debut in 2023 and already establishing himself as a key player for future tournaments.
International Record:
- Senior debut: November 2023 (aged 17)
- World Cup qualification appearances: 3 matches
- Future target: 2026 World Cup starting role
Success with the No. 9 shirt at Real Madrid would significantly boost his claims for Brazil’s central striking position ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Market Value and Commercial Impact
Financial Implications
Endrick’s appointment to the No. 9 shirt carries significant commercial implications for both player and club. Jersey sales, marketing opportunities, and global brand recognition all benefit from association with such an iconic number.
His current market value stands at €35 million according to recent valuations, but successful performances in the No. 9 shirt could see this figure rise substantially as he develops into a global superstar.
Season Outlook and Expectations
Immediate Challenges
The 2025-26 season presents numerous challenges for Endrick as he adapts to his new role and increased expectations. Key factors include:
Pressure Points:
- Living up to the No. 9 legacy
- Competing with established stars
- Adapting to Xabi Alonso’s system
- Managing increased media attention
Opportunities:
- More consistent playing time
- Central role in attack
- European competition experience
- Platform for Brazil recognition
Long-term Vision and Development
Real Madrid’s decision reflects their confidence in Endrick’s ability to become a cornerstone of their future attacking play. The club’s investment in his development suggests they view him as potentially reaching the elite level of previous No. 9 holders.
Success in this role could establish Endrick as one of world football’s premier strikers, fulfilling the enormous potential that convinced Real Madrid to invest so heavily in his acquisition from Palmeiras.
FAQs
Why did Real Madrid choose Endrick over Gonzalo García for the No. 9 shirt?
Despite García’s excellent performances at the Club World Cup, Real Madrid view Endrick as having higher long-term potential and represent a significant transfer investment that they want to see succeed in a prominent role.
When will Endrick be available to play after his injury?
Endrick is expected to return from his hamstring injury in early September 2025, potentially missing the season opener but being available for the majority of the campaign.
What previous legends have worn the No. 9 shirt at Real Madrid?
The No. 9 has been worn by Ronaldo Nazário, Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and most recently Kylian Mbappé, making it one of the most prestigious numbers at the club.
How many goals did Endrick score in his debut season at Real Madrid?
Endrick scored 7 goals and provided 1 assist in his first season, despite limited playing time under Carlo Ancelotti.
What role will Xabi Alonso give Endrick in the new season?
Xabi Alonso is expected to provide Endrick with significantly more playing time and integrate him as a key part of Real Madrid’s attacking setup, utilizing his pace and finishing ability.
