Cristiano Ronaldo’s Manchester United exit could mean several things for Jadon Sancho.
The winger had an underwhelming debut season following his £73m move from Borussia Dortmund last summer. Some United fans have argued Ronaldo’s presence hindered his and many other younger players’ opportunities and freedoms in attack.
They might argue that the 37-year-old’s exit would take some of the pressure off Sancho, allowing him to reprise his the form he showed at Dortmund. He would certainly lose a mentor if Ronaldo does seal a move away, though.
READ MORE: Why Manchester United might have to sell Cristiano Ronaldo to Chelsea
The Portugal captain will mostly be remembered at Old Trafford for his first stint, when he was consistently seen outpacing, outwitting and outfoxing opponents on the left wing. Sancho may have spied his opportunity to ask him for advice last term.
However, Ronaldo’s departure would open up an opportunity for Sancho. The 22-year-old could step into his dream shirt number if the No.7 is vacated.
It’s the number he wore at Dortmund prior to his move, and was also the jersey he adopted for Manchester City’s Under-18s before that. United had tried to lure Sancho to the club in the summer of 2020 before a transfer was secured last year.
In both sets of negotiations the No.7 had been offered to him, according to the Athletic. However, he was reportedly left confused and had to settle for the No.25 after Edinson Cavani refused to give up the shirt despite being assured of another 12 months at United.
In the end, the Uruguayan gave the No.7 to Cristiano Ronaldo upon his August return after the Premier League granted special dispensation for an unusual mid-season change.
However, Sancho can now get his hands on the iconic jersey — which has been worn by club legends such as George Best, Eric Cantona and David Beckham — this summer if Ronaldo leaves. Other players who might fancy the number might include Anthony Elanga or a new signing like Frenkie de Jong, Christian Eriksen or Antony.
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