Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to Manchester United is almost complete. The star passed a medical at the weekend.
One of the big questions remaining over the deal is which squad number Ronaldo will get.
All will be revealed shortly, of course, but in the meantime we can piece the puzzle together.
The objective for United and Ronaldo is for the star to get the number 7 shirt.
CR7 is synonymous with Ronaldo’s brand, and he has worn the shirt throughout his career, apart from one short spell at Real Madrid where he wore the 9 shirt, before taking up 7 when it became available.
There have been conflicting reports on whether Ronaldo would get the 7, would even be allowed to, and what that means for Edinson Cavani.
Premier League drop hint 7 could be possible
The Premier League website is a little confusing on the matter. The site lists Cavani as United’s number 7.
But it also officially confirms Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to Manchester United, except he is also registered as the club’s number 7.
This at least suggests the number 7 shirt could be an option for United wth Ronaldo.
So where then, for Edinson Cavani? Helpfully a squad number may just be opening up…
James exit and Cavani to 21?
Wales winger Dan James is closing in on a departure from Manchester United, with Leeds keen.
The Athletic report James is set to make a permanent move to Leeds for £25 million, a fee which is too good for United to turn down for a squad player.
James occupies the number 21 for United, and this would be freed up for Cavani.
This isn’t just any old number for Cavani. 21 is the squad number Cavani has worn for Uruguay since 2011, the one he has worn at major tournaments.
Cavani will appreciate the sentimental value of 7 to Ronaldo and the connection the superstar has with the club. It makes sense for him to step aside.
Pictures of the pair at the 2018 World Cup even shows Ronaldo in 7 and Cavani in 21.
This is a likely look at what lies ahead at Manchester United, once James’ exit is confirmed and Ronaldo’s arrival totally sealed.
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