Xtra Time Web Desk: Cristiano Ronaldo will get back his No 7 jersey during his second stint at Old Trafford, Manchester United said on Thursday. Ronaldo donned the same jersey number during his previous stint with the Premier League club. United has a rich tradition with No 7 jersey as it has been worn by stalwarts like George Best, Bryan Robson and David Beckham.
“Manchester United can confirm that Cristiano Ronaldo will wear the iconic no.7 shirt after returning to Old Trafford,” the club said on its social media handle twitter.
The 36-year-old Portuguese forward spent six seasons at United between 2003-09, winning eight major trophies, and rejoined them this week from Juventus on a two-year deal.
Edinson Cavani had been in possession of number 7 but the Premier League club said the Uruguayan striker has been allocated No. 21, the same number he has with his national team. Cavani wore No. 7 when he came on as a substitute in the 1-0 win over Wolverhampton on Sunday.
“I wasn’t sure if it would be possible to have the number seven shirt again, so I would like to say a huge thank you to Edi for this incredible gesture,” Ronaldo said on United’s Twitter feed.
Ronaldo was released early from Portugal’s squad on Thursday, a day after he became the leading goal scorer in International football with 111 goals.
He is likely to play his first match against Newcastle at Old Trafford on September 11.