Who is Real Madrid 7 now?

The Weight of the 7: Vinícius Júnior and Real Madrid’s Legacy

The number 7 shirt at Real Madrid. It’s more than just a piece of fabric; it’s a symbol, a mantle passed down through generations of legends. From Raúl to Cristiano Ronaldo, the number carries the weight of expectation, the pressure of performing on the grandest stage. And now, it rests on the shoulders of Vinícius Júnior.

The Brazilian winger, once a raw talent brimming with potential, has blossomed into a key figure for Los Blancos. His electrifying pace, mesmerizing dribbling, and increasingly clinical finishing have made him a nightmare for defenders across Europe. While he initially wore the 20 shirt upon arriving in Madrid, Vinícius inherited the iconic 7 after Eden Hazard’s departure in the summer of 2023, signifying the club’s faith in his ability to become the next talismanic figure at the Bernabéu.

Wearing the 7 isn’t simply about individual brilliance; it’s about leading the attack, inspiring teammates, and driving the team towards silverware. Vinícius now shares the frontline with a formidable array of attacking talent. Kylian Mbappé, finally donning the white shirt and the number 9, brings his world-class speed and lethal finishing to the attack. Rodrygo, another Brazilian prodigy, continues to impress with his skill and versatility on the wing, wearing the number 11. And then there’s Endrick, the highly touted young Brazilian signed in 2024, who currently wears the 16 and represents the future of Real Madrid’s attack, waiting in the wings to make his mark.

The combination of established stars and rising talents creates a dynamic and potent attacking force. While Mbappé’s arrival arguably shifted the attacking hierarchy, Vinícius, with the number 7 on his back, remains a crucial component of Real Madrid’s plans. He represents the bridge between the club’s illustrious past and its ambitious future.

The pressure of the 7 is immense, but Vinícius Júnior seems to thrive under the spotlight. He embraces the challenge, carrying the legacy of those who came before him while forging his own path to greatness. As Real Madrid continue their quest for domestic and European glory, the number 7 will once again be at the forefront, leading the charge with the flair, passion, and determination that have defined the club for generations. The weight of the 7 is heavy, but in the hands of Vinícius Júnior, it feels remarkably light, a symbol not of burden, but of opportunity.