Breaking News: Luka Modrić Slams Real Madrid’s Decision to Return Number 10 Jersey to Mbappé, Accuses Club of Betraying Arda Güler with a 12-Word Ultimatum

The football world has been rocked by Luka Modrić’s fierce criticism of Real Madrid following the club’s controversial decision to assign his iconic number 10 jersey to Kylian Mbappé for the 2025-26 season.

After 13 glorious years at Los Blancos, Modrić, now at AC Milan, publicly accused the Spanish giants of deceiving young prodigy Arda Güler, delivering a powerful 12-word ultimatum aimed directly at Mbappé.

This explosive statement has ignited passionate debate among fans, pundits, and insiders about legacy, loyalty, and commercial interests at one of football’s most storied clubs.

Luka Modrić’s tenure at Real Madrid was nothing short of legendary.

Joining the club in 2012, the Croatian maestro transformed the midfield with his vision, precision, and relentless dedication.

Over 13 seasons, he amassed an astonishing 28 trophies, including six UEFA Champions League titles.

The number 10 jersey, which he wore for eight years, became synonymous with his creative genius and leadership on the pitch.

As his contract neared its end, speculation swirled about who would inherit this revered number.

Many believed the 20-year-old Turkish sensation Arda Güler was the natural successor, especially after Modrić ceremoniously handed him the number 10 shirt during his farewell at the FIFA Club World Cup.

The emotional moment, captured on camera, moved fans worldwide and symbolized the passing of the torch.

Güler, who struggled for minutes under former coach Carlo Ancelotti but flourished under Xabi Alonso, was seen as the heir to Modrić’s creative role in midfield.

His performances at the Club World Cup, including a goal against Pachuca and a crucial assist against Borussia Dortmund, showcased his potential to carry on the legacy.

Fans and analysts praised Güler’s intelligence, versatility, and ability to control the tempo—qualities reminiscent of Modrić himself.

However, Real Madrid’s decision to award the number 10 jersey to French superstar Kylian Mbappé, who joined the club in 2024, sparked outrage.

Mbappé, who had worn number 9 since his arrival and scored an impressive 44 goals in his debut season, was widely regarded as a favorite for the iconic number due to his global stature and proven track record with France and Monaco.

Yet, the choice was met with dismay by Modrić’s and Güler’s supporters.

Sources close to Modrić revealed that the Croatian had unofficially promised the number 10 to Güler, making the club’s move appear as a betrayal of the young talent.

The decision, reportedly driven by the club’s desire to capitalize on Mbappé’s marketing appeal, was perceived as an insult to Güler’s rising status.

In a rare and impassioned outburst, Modrić declared: “Real Madrid deceived Arda.

Mbappé must respect the club’s legacy.”

These twelve words, weighed by Modrić’s illustrious career, were both a defense of Güler and a stern warning to Mbappé to honor the significance of the number 10 shirt.

Historically donned by legends like Ferenc Puskás, Luis Figo, and Mesut Özil, the jersey carries immense prestige, and Modrić’s words underscored that Mbappé must embody the creativity and leadership the number demands.

Social media erupted with reactions as Güler’s fans voiced their disappointment.

One post on X read: “Mbappé is not a true number 10! The real heir is Arda!” Another supporter commented: “Modrić is right; Real Madrid values profit over loyalty.”

Meanwhile, Mbappé’s fans argued that his superstar status justifies the decision, citing his La Liga Golden Boot and pivotal role in the team’s attack.

The debate has divided the Madrid fanbase, with some questioning whether the club prioritizes commercial gain over nurturing young talent.

Arda Güler himself has remained largely silent, but insiders close to the young midfielder suggest he is disappointed yet focused on proving his worth under coach Xabi Alonso.

Güler’s versatility—capable of playing as an 8, 10, or even as a winger—has made him a key figure in Alonso’s plans.

Despite being overlooked for the number 10 shirt, his youth offers time to reclaim the position, especially considering Mbappé is five years his senior and could depart in the future.

Modrić’s passionate outcry casts a shadow over Real Madrid’s preparations for the upcoming season.

His legacy as the club’s most successful player is reflected in his words, and his staunch defense of Güler highlights the values of humility and mentorship that have defined his career.

As the debate rages on, all eyes are now on Mbappé to see if he can live up to the legendary number 10 legacy and on Güler to fulfill the promise Modrić so clearly sees in him.

This saga epitomizes the tension between tradition and modern football’s commercial pressures.

The number 10 jersey is more than a number—it is a symbol of identity, creativity, and leadership passed down through generations of Madrid legends.

Whether the club’s decision marks a shift toward branding priorities or a strategic move to maximize success remains to be seen.

For now, the football world watches anxiously as this story unfolds, hoping that respect for legacy and talent prevails.

In the words of Luka Modrić himself, “Real Madrid deceived Arda.

Mbappé must respect the club’s legacy.”

The challenge lies ahead for both players—to honor the past while shaping the future of one of football’s greatest institutions.