Portugal Reveals New No. 7 Following Cristiano Ronaldo Departure
Cristiano Ronaldo has officially departed the Portugal national team, leading to the reassignment of his iconic No. 7 jersey to Rafael Leao. Reports suggest the decision is irreversible following a period of internal tension within the squad.
Why it matters
The departure of one of football's most iconic figures marks the end of an era for the Portuguese national team and shifts the leadership dynamic for future tournaments.
After Cristiano Ronaldo's unexpected departure from the Portugal national team camp, UEFA officially assigned new squad numbers to the Portuguese team, confirming that Rafael Leao will now wear the iconic No. 7.
Because European regulations do not allow empty squad numbers on the call-up list, the Portuguese Football Federation had to immediately assign a new owner to the mythical jersey from within its squad.
Although players like Joao Felix were candidates to take on the No. 11 and wear their idol's number, the Galatasaray forward ultimately got the jersey.
At 27, Leao assumes the historic responsibility of the number, backed by a career of 50 international matches in the Portuguese jersey, with 6 goals and 8 assists.
Also covering this story
8 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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