Ronaldo free to link up with United, recaptures No 7 shirt

Posted September 02, 2021 7:00 am

By STEVE DOUGLAS

Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo reacts during the World Cup 2022 group A qualifying soccer match between Portugal and the Republic of Ireland at the Algarve stadium outside Faro, Portugal, Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2021. (AP Photo/Armando Franca) The Associated Press

Cristiano Ronaldo can begin his second spell at Manchester United earlier than anticipated.

And he'll reclaim his prized No. 7 jersey when he gets back to Old Trafford.

Ronaldo was released early from Portugal's squad on Thursday, a day after becoming the highest-scoring player in the history of men's international soccer by netting his 110th and 111th goals in a 2-1 win over Ireland in a World Cup qualifying match.

He also got booked in that match, meaning he has to miss the qualifier against Azerbaijan on Tuesday through suspension. As a result, Portugal allowed Ronaldo to leave the squad after a recovery session early Thursday, even though the team also plays Qatar in a friendly on Saturday.

His early release from international duty should enable him to spend more time with his new United teammates ahead of his likely first match of his return, against Newcastle at Old Trafford on Sept. 11.

And United said Ronaldo will again be wearing the No. 7 shirt he wore in his first spell at the club from 2003-09.

Edinson Cavani had been in possession of that number but United said the Uruguay striker has now been allocated No. 21, the same number he has with his national team.

Cavani wore No. 7 when he came on as a substitute in the 1-0 win over Wolverhampton on Sunday.

'œAs we all know, the No. 7 is a special number in the history of United,'ť United said. 'œIt has previously been worn by club icons like George Best, Bryan Robson, Eric Cantona and David Beckham. Now, it returns to the man who succeeded Beckham in it, Ronaldo.'ť

___

More AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports

Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo claps his hands as he warms-up before the World Cup 2022 group A qualifying soccer match between Portugal and the Republic of Ireland at the Algarve stadium outside Faro, Portugal, Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2021. (AP Photo/Armando Franca) The Associated Press

Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo looks on after wetting his face with water, during a training session in Oeiras, Portugal, Monday, Aug. 30, 2021. Portugal will play Ireland on Wednesday in a Qatar 2022 World Cup qualifying match. (AP Photo/Armando Franca) The Associated Press

Article Comments

Article Categories
Content Providers MLS Pro Sports Soccer Sports Sports Leagues Sports Types

Article Comments

Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked. If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.