A new era in Portuguese football officially kicked off in drama-filled fashion as explosive winger Rafael Leão was handed the iconic No. 7 jersey following Cristiano Ronaldo’s sudden departure from the national team camp.
The shirt allocation was confirmed in a revised squad list issued by UEFA ahead of Portugal’s UEFA Nations League encounter against Denmark in Copenhagen. Usually donning the No. 17 kit for Seleção das Quinas, the dynamic attacker stepped right into the immense spotlight left by the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.
Wearing the famous jersey on the pitch, Leão helped anchor Portugal’s attack as they ground out an impressive 4-2 away victory over the Danes. Goals from João Cancelo, Gonçalo Ramos, Vitinha, and João Félix ensured the team kept their stellar momentum alive in Group D.
Speaking after the high-octane victory, Leão candidly shared the deep personal significance behind donning the iconic jersey. “Wearing the number 7 shirt was special for me, because Cristiano has been my idol since I was a child,” Leão expressed. “I tried to honor the shirt and enjoy it. My children were also born on the 7th, so I am so happy”.
Ronaldo’s exit from the national squad camp followed reports of growing friction with head coach Jorge Jesus. While the veteran forward promised on social media to reveal “the truth about the reasons that motivated me to leave” at a later time, Portuguese fans are already looking to the future. With Leão leading the next generation of footballing talent, the Seleção appears ready to write its next chapter.
Do you think Rafael Leão is the rightful heir to Portugal’s iconic No. 7 shirt? Sound off in the comments section below!
