The Portuguese will wear the No. 7 jersey upon his return to Old Trafford after 12 years, the club confirmed.
Cavani will switch to the number 21 for the 2021/22 campaign – which he also wears for Uruguay national team.
“Manchester United can confirm that Cristiano Ronaldo will wear the iconic no.7 shirt after returning to Old Trafford.”
“The Portuguese superstar famously wore the legendary shirt number during his first spell with the club and we can confirm that Cristiano will have it on his back once again.”
the statement read.
Ronaldo has been granted permission to take the number from Cavani despite the latter already making a league appearance this season. To do so, Manchester United had to acquire special dispensation from the Premier League, as the rules require players to retain their numbers throughout the season once worn.
The special request was granted by the league on this occasion, thereby allowing Ronaldo to retake his iconic shirt and maintain the CR7 brand.
The number 7 shirt holds a special place in United mythos, having been worn by club legends Eric Cantona, George Best, David Beckham, and Ronaldo himself.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner wore the same number throughout his first spell for the club, despite initially asking to be given the ‘28’ shirt. Wearing 7 on his back, Ronaldo made 292 appearances for the Red Devils, scored 118 goals, won nine trophies and his first Ballon d’Or.
After his departure, the Manchester United number 7 shirt was passed between Michael Owen, Antonio Valencia, Angel Di Maria, Memphis Depay, Alexis Sanchez and Cavani, albeit none were able to replicate Ronaldo’s success.
Having reclaimed his number, Ronaldo is expected to make his second debut for the club against Newcastle United in the Premier League clash on September 11.
