As the summer transfer window approaches, Manchester United faces a crucial decision: who will wear the iconic No.7 shirt next season? Since Cristiano Ronaldo left the club last year, the shirt has remained vacant, waiting for a player who can handle the weight of expectation that comes with it. The No.7 shirt is arguably the most famous shirt number in world football, with its association with Manchester United legends such as George Best, Eric Cantona, and David Beckham.
However, for every star that has shone while wearing the No.7 shirt, there have been others who have failed to live up to the expectations. Michael Owen, Memphis Depay, and Angel Di Maria are some of the players who couldn’t handle the pressure, while Antonio Valencia even requested to switch back to his old number after just one season wearing the No.7 shirt.
So, who will be the next player to wear the iconic number at Manchester United? At the moment, there are two leading contenders: Antony and Jadon Sancho. Antony, who joined the club last year as the second most expensive signing in the club’s history, has the star quality and self-confidence to handle the pressure of the shirt. However, he needs to show more consistency and reliability on the pitch to prove that he is ready for the role.
On the other hand, Sancho is yet to earn the right to wear the No.7 shirt, as he has struggled for consistency and has not secured a regular spot in the lineup under manager Erik ten Hag. While he has shown glimpses of his potential, it would be a gamble to give him such a prestigious shirt number, especially as his future at the club remains uncertain.
There is also the option of promoting young talent from within the club, such as 18-year-old Alejandro Garnacho. The young forward has already drawn comparisons to Ronaldo, and his style of play suggests that he has the potential to become a star player in the future. If United is looking for a long-term solution, Garnacho could be the answer.
Alternatively, the No.7 shirt could go to a summer signing or someone already in the squad, such as Christian Eriksen, who has proven his quality in his most memorable season at the club. Ultimately, the decision will be up to manager Erik ten Hag, who will need to choose a player who can handle the pressure and expectations that come with the iconic shirt number.
While choosing a shirt number may seem like a small decision, it can have a significant impact on a player’s confidence and performance. The No.7 shirt at Manchester United is not just a number, it is a symbol of greatness and a legacy that stretches back decades. The next player to wear it will need to understand the weight of the responsibility that comes with it and rise to the challenge.