In an unexpected move, Real Madrid legend Luka Modrić surprised everyone inside and outside the club. The Croatian star decided to hand over the number 10 shirt, which he had worn throughout his exceptional career, to a young player believed to be the true heir to his legacy at Real Madrid.
In a private conversation with coach Xabi Alonso, Modrić expressed his strong confidence in the player who would inherit the iconic shirt. He told him, “This player will become something great… and it’s better for him to continue his career from now on wearing the historic shirt of Real Madrid!” Thus began one of the most surprising decisions in the royal club’s history — a moment that will remain etched in the memories of its fans.
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After 13 years at Real Madrid, during which he won numerous domestic and international titles, Luka Modrić officially bid farewell to the club following his final match in the 2025 Club World Cup semifinal. The departure was particularly emotional, especially after the team’s shocking 4-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, which denied him a final trophy in his illustrious career.
Despite the exit, Modrić’s record remains remarkable, with 28 domestic and international titles to his name, securing his place as one of the greatest players in Real Madrid’s history. At 40 years old, Modrić appears to have chosen to leave the club at the peak of his career, having made a tremendous contribution to Los Blancos and earned admiration from fans around the world.
Upon his departure, Modrić surprised everyone by passing the number 10 shirt to young Turkish player Arda Güler, considered one of the club’s brightest future stars. The move came as a surprise not only to fans, but also to Güler himself, who received the gesture with great enthusiasm. Modrić embraced him in an emotional moment, affirming his complete confidence in the young player’s abilities.
In an exclusive video posted by the Spanish program El Chiringuito on its X account, Modrić was seen handing the number 10 shirt to Güler — a gesture that symbolized the great trust he has in his young teammate. The moment holds deep symbolic significance in Real Madrid’s history, as Güler is expected to become the new face of the team and the one to carry Modrić’s banner into the future.
The decision to give Arda Güler the number 10 shirt was not just a sentimental gesture from Modrić, but a genuine expression of deep faith in the Turkish player’s talent. Güler, who joined Real Madrid earlier, has already showcased his exceptional abilities and great potential in the matches he has played. His control of the midfield and sharp vision make him the ideal successor to the style that Modrić has become known for over the years.
With the transfer of the number 10 shirt to Güler, Real Madrid appears to be entering a new era following the departure of one of its all-time greats. Modrić, who spent more than a decade at the club, was a cornerstone of Real Madrid’s modern project. Now, Güler must take up the mantle and continue the club’s pursuit of domestic and international glory.
All eyes will be on the Turkish star next season, as expectations rise following Modrić’s momentous decision. Will Güler live up to those expectations and follow in the footsteps of a legend like Modrić? That question remains open — but at Real Madrid, challenges are always seen as the path to growth and success.
Modrić’s legacy will endure, but Güler is the future.
