Portugal forward Rafael Leão will wear the iconic No. 7 jersey previously associated with Cristiano Ronaldo in the national team’s upcoming matches.
UEFA confirmed the change after Ronaldo left the Portugal camp. Leão, who normally wears No. 17, has been listed as No. 7 on Portugal’s official squad list for their Nations League fixture against Denmark in Copenhagen on Thursday and their home match against Norway on Sunday.
Football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano also confirmed the development, writing: “UEFA confirm Rafael Leão has been listed as Portugal No7 for the next two games following Cristiano leaving.”
Newly called-up forward Fábio Silva has taken over Leão’s former No. 17 shirt.
The jersey change is reportedly required by UEFA Nations League regulations, which state that the 23 players selected for a matchday squad must wear consecutive shirt numbers from 1 to 23 without gaps.
Ronaldo left the Portugal camp on Wednesday after he was an unused substitute during Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Norway on Sunday.
Leão’s temporary switch to No. 7 means he will now step into one of the most recognisable shirt numbers in Portuguese football, at least for Portugal’s next two matches.
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