Tensions are reportedly rising at Real Madrid after Kylian Mbappé issued a shocking ultimatum to the club’s management regarding the No. 10 jersey, previously worn by Luka Modrić. According to multiple sources close to the situation, Mbappé has warned that if young star Arda Güler is handed the iconic number, he will consider terminating his contract and seeking a new club.

The dispute centers around the No. 10 shirt, a number that carries significant prestige at Real Madrid, having been worn by legendary players such as Modrić, Luis Figo, and Ferenc Puskás. Modrić, who left the club at the end of last season, had cemented his legacy as one of the greatest midfielders in Real Madrid’s history. With his departure, the number has become a symbol of leadership and status, and Mbappé is adamant that it should reflect the seniority and stature of the player who wears it.

Reports suggest that Mbappé, who only recently joined Real Madrid after years of speculation about his future, views the No. 10 shirt as an acknowledgment of his position as the club’s new talisman. Sources claim that the French star expressed his frustration during a private meeting with Real Madrid’s board, warning that allowing Güler to inherit the number would be a “slap in the face” to his role and achievements.

Arda Güler, meanwhile, has been touted as one of the most promising young talents at the club. Since joining from Fenerbahçe, the Turkish playmaker has impressed in training and with limited appearances, earning the admiration of fans and teammates alike. However, at just 19 years old, some within the squad reportedly feel it is too early for him to be handed such a prestigious jersey.

The situation has sparked intense debate both inside and outside the club. Some fans believe Mbappé’s stance is understandable, given his status as one of the world’s top players and his expected role in leading Real Madrid into a new era. Others, however, have criticized the Frenchman for what they see as unnecessary drama, pointing out that the number on a player’s back should not dictate their performance or value to the team.

Behind the scenes, the matter has become a delicate issue for club president Florentino Pérez and head coach Xabi Alonso. Pérez, who worked tirelessly to bring Mbappé to Madrid, is believed to be concerned about upsetting his marquee signing so soon after his arrival. At the same time, the club must balance Mbappé’s demands with the need to foster harmony in the squad and reward young players for their progress.

Xabi Alonso, known for his strong leadership and calm demeanor, is reportedly trying to defuse the situation. “What matters most is the team,” he told reporters when asked about the jersey controversy. “Numbers are important to the fans and the history of the club, but what truly matters is the work done on the pitch. We are a family here, and we will handle this as such.”

Despite Alonso’s efforts, the ultimatum from Mbappé has cast a shadow over the start of the season. Insiders claim the player has made it clear that if his request is ignored, he will explore his options, even if it means a sensational early departure from the club he only recently joined.

The development has shocked the football world, particularly because of Mbappé’s long-awaited transfer to Real Madrid. After years of rumors and negotiations, his arrival was seen as the beginning of a new era for Los Blancos. Any hint of instability involving the club’s most high-profile signing is likely to raise questions about the direction Real Madrid is heading under Pérez’s leadership.

For Arda Güler, the situation is equally challenging. The teenager has remained silent publicly, but those close to him suggest he is uncomfortable with the controversy. “He just wants to play football and develop,” said one source. “The last thing he wants is to be at the center of a conflict like this.”

Fans have taken to social media to express their opinions, with the debate showing no signs of slowing down. Some have called for compromise, suggesting Güler could be given another prestigious number, such as 21 or 22, allowing Mbappé to take the 10 without further drama. Others believe the club should stand firm and not allow any player, no matter how talented, to dictate decisions about squad numbers.

As Real Madrid prepares for the upcoming La Liga campaign, the issue remains unresolved. Club officials are said to be weighing all options carefully, aware that the decision will have significant implications for squad unity and public perception.

Whether Mbappé follows through on his threat remains to be seen, but the ultimatum has already sent shockwaves through the football world. Real Madrid now faces the difficult task of managing a situation that could define the early months of their new star’s tenure at the Santiago Bernabéu