Endrick Inherits Real Madrid’s Famous Number 9 – A New Era Begins at the Bernabéu
The debate is over: Real Madrid has confirmed that Endrick will wear the iconic No. 9 shirt for the 2025/26 season. In a move loaded with symbolism, the 19-year-old Brazilian prodigy steps into a jersey once worn by legends such as Alfredo Di Stéfano, Hugo Sánchez, Ronaldo Nazário, Karim Benzema, and Cristiano Ronaldo during certain campaigns. This is more than a squad number—it’s a declaration of trust, responsibility, and ambition from the club.
From Palmeiras Prodigy to Bernabéu Breakthrough
Endrick arrived at the Bernabéu in the summer of 2024 from Palmeiras, where he had been tipped as one of Brazil’s next great exports. His transfer, agreed two years earlier when he was just 16, reportedly cost Madrid around €35 million plus add-ons. In his debut season, despite battling a hamstring injury that sidelined him for several weeks, Endrick scored seven goals and provided three assists across all competitions—solid numbers for a teenager adjusting to La Liga’s demands.
His mix of explosive pace, flair, and instinctive finishing already won him admirers among fans and pundits. But now, with the No. 9 shirt on his back, expectations will inevitably soar.
Why Number 9 Matters at Madrid
The No. 9 jersey at Real Madrid isn’t just another shirt—it’s the emblem of the club’s attacking spearhead. From the ruthless finishing of Ferenc Puskás to the elegance of Karim Benzema, the number has always been worn by those tasked with delivering goals in decisive moments. When Kylian Mbappé arrived this summer and opted for the No. 10 instead, a rare window opened for a young player to claim this prestigious number.
Coach Xabi Alonso and president Florentino Pérez agreed that Endrick was the right man. As reported by AS, the decision reflects not only his potential but also the club’s commitment to making him a cornerstone of their future attack.
Beating Internal Competition
Endrick’s assignment to the No. 9 shirt wasn’t automatic. Young Spanish striker Gonzalo García—a product of Madrid’s academy—had also been considered after impressing with key goals in the FIFA Club World Cup. However, García has signed a contract extension until June 2030 and will instead take the No. 16 shirt, which Endrick vacates.
Insiders suggest that while García is seen as an important squad option, Madrid’s technical staff believe Endrick’s style, mentality, and market appeal make him a more natural heir to the number historically linked to Madrid’s main striker.
A Statement to Fans and Rivals
This move also sends a message beyond the dressing room. For fans, it’s a signal that Real Madrid isn’t just about buying global superstars—they’re committed to developing them too. For rivals, it’s a reminder that Madrid’s recruitment machine is not only about securing the best now (as with Mbappé) but also ensuring the future is equally bright.
The commercial implications are also significant. Endrick’s No. 9 shirt is expected to be one of the best-selling jerseys of the season, particularly in Brazil, where he is already seen as a future icon.
The Pressure and the Promise
While this is a vote of confidence, it also comes with pressure. Wearing No. 9 at Real Madrid carries the expectation of 20+ goals per season and decisive performances in El Clásico, the Champions League, and other key fixtures. Endrick’s physicality and skillset suggest he has the tools to meet that challenge, but his age means patience will be required.
Xabi Alonso has already indicated that the Brazilian will be managed carefully:
“The number on the shirt is important, but more important is the role he will play for the team. Endrick is ready to contribute now, but we will help him grow into the player he can become.”
Looking Ahead
With Mbappé wearing No. 10, Vinícius Júnior continuing in No. 7, and Rodrygo Goes retaining No. 11, Madrid’s attack could feature an all-Brazilian front three—each with the pace, flair, and finishing ability to terrorize defences across Europe. Endrick, positioned centrally, could become the perfect link between the creativity of Vinícius and the cutting edge of Mbappé.
If he fulfills his promise, this decision to hand him the No. 9 shirt could be remembered alongside other bold Madrid moves—such as giving Raúl González the captaincy at just 22.