Kylian Mbappé surpasses Cristiano Ronaldo as Real Madrid’s biggest marketing icon
Kylian Mbappé has become the centerpiece of Real Madrid’s project, and with the legendary No. 10 jersey available, he wasted no time in claiming it. After wearing the No. 9 during his first season at the Santiago Bernabéu, the French forward embraced the responsibility of the most symbolic number in world soccer. The decision instantly sparked a frenzy among fans, as his new jersey broke all kinds of sales records—surpassing even Cristiano Ronaldo’s historic numbers.
According to Sport, citing data from Euromericas Sports Marketing, Mbappé’s No. 10 shirt has already sold over 350,000 units. This figure confirms that the marketing move by Real Madrid and Adidas has been a resounding success, generating exponential profits. Beyond the commercial aspect, the gesture of taking the No. 10 signals Mbappé’s confidence and ambition to cement his legacy among the game’s greats.
At 26 years old, Mbappé showed why Real Madrid made him the face of their future. He played an astonishing 56 matches across all competitions, logging more than 4,600 minutes on the pitch. During that span, he netted 43 goals and contributed five assists, becoming the undisputed leader of Madrid’s attack. His consistency across LaLiga, the Champions League, and domestic cups proved crucial in maintaining Los Blancos’ competitiveness at the highest level.
These numbers not only highlight his scoring prowess but also his ability to adapt seamlessly to different competitions. For Real Madrid fans, they signal that Mbappé is not just a marquee signing, but a player ready to carry the weight of expectations season after season.
More than just marketing
While shirt sales are making headlines, Mbappé’s impact extends far beyond the business side of soccer. Wearing the No. 10 is about more than revenue—it’s about responsibility. The number has been previously worn by legends, and by taking it on, Mbappé positions himself as the new leader of Real Madrid’s identity. His charisma, combined with his performances, has already set him apart as the natural heir to the club’s tradition of superstars.
What comes next for Mbappé and Real Madrid
With the No. 10 on his back, Mbappé enters the 2025/26 season with immense expectations. Fans and analysts alike see him as the player who could define a new era of dominance for Los Blancos. The challenge will be to maintain his elite production while leading a team full of stars.
If his first season was a glimpse of his potential, then his second could be the year when Mbappé truly stamps his name alongside the legends of Real Madrid.