The stage is set, and the curtain has been drawn back to reveal Manchester United’s much-anticipated provisional squad numbers for the upcoming season. This unveiling is like unwrapping a gift, filled with intrigue and the promise of what’s to come. But amidst the excitement, there’s a certain enigma that’s captured everyone’s attention – Rasmus Hojlund. The Danish sensation, freshly inducted from Atalanta, has yet to don a number, a mystery that might soon be unraveled.
As the ink dries on the contract and the world watches, there’s a twist in the tale. Hojlund’s introduction to Old Trafford has been temporarily put on hold due to a minor back injury. It’s a tantalizing pause, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the moment he graces the field. But which number will adorn his back? The suspense is real, and the answer is yet to emerge from the shadows.
Reflecting on his Atalanta days, Hojlund sported the revered number 17. A number that carried a story, an identity intertwined with his journey. However, in Manchester United’s lineup, the number 17 jersey is currently claimed by Fred. A strategic shuffle might be on the horizon, raising questions about Fred’s future as whispers about his potential departure surface.
As the spotlight sweeps across the roster, one thing is certain – as United’s season kicks off against Wolves, the rest of the squad will be clad in their familiar numbers. Alejandro Garnacho, a rising star donning the No. 49, adds youthful zest to the mix. Yet, intriguingly, as the transfer window nears its end, the winds of change might sweep over Garnacho’s jersey, hinting at the fluidity of football dynamics.
Amidst the excitement, a note of caution has been sounded by the club. The eager fans are urged to consider the mercurial nature of the game before investing in numbered replica jerseys. These numbers, like the players themselves, might experience a transformation, leaving fans with a jersey that no longer syncs with the unfolding reality. The Premier League has its share of surprises, but the majority of the numbers are expected to stand their ground.
Amongst the numbers that remain steadfast, Andre Onana’s preferred No. 24 will adorn his jersey, a homage to his journey through Inter Milan and Ajax. The threads of history and aspiration are intricately woven into these numbers, making them more than just labels.
And then, the iconic No. 7 shirt. A number that has sparked magic on football fields for decades. This time, the honor of donning this legendary number goes to Mason Mount, freshly arrived from Chelsea. As he steps into the lineage of legends, fans are already dreaming of the goals, the plays, and the memorable moments he’ll etch into the club’s story.
As the squad numbers are revealed, there’s an intriguing absence that’s hard to overlook – Eric Bailly. A familiar No. 3 shirt bearer at Old Trafford, he’s absent from this list. Rumors whisper that his journey at Manchester United might be reaching its final chapter, echoing the broader shift in the club’s strategy under the watchful eyes of Erik ten Hag.
As the summer days unfold, and the transfer window edges towards its close, the excitement remains palpable. Erik ten Hag’s efforts to shape the squad according to his vision promise a season filled with shifts, surprises, and footballing drama. As we count down to the kickoff, fans are left with a tantalizing taste of what’s to come – a season painted in shades of mystery, transformation, and hope.
The provisional squad numbers below:
- 2 Victor Lindelof
- 5 Harry Maguire
- 6 Lisandro Martinez
- 7 Mason Mount
- 8 Bruno Fernandes
- 9 Anthony Martial
- 10 Marcus Rashford
- 12 Tyrell Malacia
- 14 Christian Eriksen
- 16 Amad
- 17 Fred
- 18 Casemiro
- 19 Raphael Varane
- 20 Diogo Dalot
- 21 Antony
- 22 Tom Heaton (GK)
- 23 Luke Shaw
- 24 Andre Onana (GK)
- 25 Jadon Sancho
- 26 Dean Henderson (GK)
- 28 Facundo Pellistri
- 29 Aaron Wan-Bissaka
- 33 Brandon Williams
- 34 Donny van de Beek
- 37 Kobbie Mainoo
- 39 Scott McTominay
- 49 Alejandro Garnacho