MODRIC LEAVES, MBAPPÉ TARGETS THE 10 SHIRT… BUT GÜLER GETS IT BACK IN 1 SHOCK MEETING! – THE LOCKER ROOM IN SHOCK!

In an unexpected twist that has sent shockwaves through the Real Madrid dressing room, young Turkish midfielder Arda Güler has emerged as the unexpected heir to the iconic No. 10 shirt following Luka Modric’s departure. Many had anticipated that newly signed superstar Kylian Mbappé would take over the number as a natural symbol of his arrival, but a pivotal internal decision has crowned Güler instead — in what players describe as a jaw-dropping moment.

The No. 10 jersey at Real Madrid is more than fabric — it represents legacy, leadership, and elegance. For over a decade, Luka Modric wore it with grace and tactical brilliance, becoming one of the most iconic figures in the club’s modern history. His decision to step away this summer has left a vacuum — and it was assumed Mbappé would fill it.

Mbappé, whose arrival this summer from Paris Saint-Germain created a media frenzy, had reportedly set his sights on the No. 10 from the very start. He had worn it at the international level with France and viewed it as part of his new beginning at the Bernabéu. But behind the scenes, a different narrative was unfolding.

Despite a season marred by injury, 20-year-old Arda Güler has quietly built his case as Real Madrid’s future. His breakthrough performance against Celta Vigo, where he dictated play with exceptional vision and flair, was the moment the club’s leadership began to see him in a different light. That match proved to be more than a highlight — it was the beginning of a power shift.

Outgoing manager Carlo Ancelotti took a gamble by starting Güler in the season-defining El Clásico against Barcelona on May 11. Critics initially questioned the move. But Güler delivered a performance beyond his years, lighting up the midfield with poise and creativity that even veterans applauded. Madridistas began to believe a star had truly arrived.

Respected Spanish pundit Álvaro Benito described Güler’s performance as “a masterclass in modern playmaking.” He added, “He sees the game in fast-forward — his anticipation and execution are world-class.” The praise didn’t end there. New head coach Xabi Alonso, set to take charge this summer, reportedly told president Florentino Pérez that Güler was “untouchable” and that “he must be the centerpiece, not just a supporting cast member.”

This backing from Alonso has given Güler a meteoric rise within the club hierarchy. In a private meeting involving senior executives, Pérez is believed to have backed Alonso’s proposal, stating that the club needs “new faces who represent the future, not just global icons.” This sentiment put Güler ahead in the race for the prestigious shirt.

Mbappé, while still the most high-profile signing of the summer, is now viewed as an external addition to a project that is increasingly focused on home-grown development and identity. Güler, despite arriving from Fenerbahçe, is seen as having embraced the Madrid DNA — humble, hard-working, and hungry.

The final decision to hand him the No. 10 was made in a closed-door meeting attended by Pérez, Alonso, and senior squad advisors. According to insiders, Güler’s words during the discussion were clear and firm: “I will not bow my head in front of anyone. I will earn it — not take it for granted.”

His response reportedly stunned the room. It wasn’t arrogance — it was conviction. Güler showed the kind of leadership Modric had quietly instilled over the years. The decision was unanimous: the No. 10 was his.

The move has not been without internal consequences. Sources close to the locker room suggest that Mbappé was “perplexed” by the call. While he didn’t express anger, there is an underlying tension as the French star had mentally prepared for the symbolic jersey change as part of his Madrid identity. Some senior players, too, were left surprised.

Alonso, however, has made it clear that hierarchy under his tenure will be based on merit, not marketing appeal. “No shirt is promised. Everything must be earned,” he told players in a team-wide meeting post-season. Güler, along with Federico Valverde and Eduardo Camavinga, is being positioned as the new face of Real Madrid’s midfield revolution.

Güler’s composure throughout the drama has been exemplary. In a brief interview after the decision, he said, “It’s an honor, but also a responsibility. I know what this number means. I will carry it with pride, but I must prove I am worthy of it in every match.”

Real Madrid fans, initially divided, are beginning to rally behind the young playmaker. Social media has erupted in support, with fans praising the club’s willingness to put faith in youth over star power. Many see this as the dawn of a new culture — one that remembers its roots while embracing evolution.

A new contract has also been proposed to Güler. Reports say it includes significant performance bonuses, a role in the club’s marketing campaigns, and long-term guarantees of playing time. The message is clear: he’s not just a squad member — he’s part of Real Madrid’s identity moving forward.

Modric, now preparing to take a backseat from club football, has reportedly endorsed the decision. In a private message to Güler, he congratulated him and said, “It’s your time now. Lead with your heart.”

In an era where megastars often dominate headlines, Real Madrid has taken a bold step by betting on a quieter brilliance — one born not from noise, but from sheer footballing purity. Güler represents something deeper than fame. He represents belief, patience, and vision.

This surprising twist may go down as one of the defining moments of Madrid’s next era. A club that could’ve chosen star power chose soul. Arda Güler isn’t just wearing the No. 10. He’s wearing the weight of a club’s future.

And that, more than anything, is what has left the locker room in stunned silence — and hopeful awe.