Ronaldo’s No.7 Shirt Gets New Owner As Rafael Leão Makes History

Portugal forward Rafael Leão will wear Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic No.7 shirt during the national team’s upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Denmark and Norway after Ronaldo departed the squad.

According to Bush Radio Academy, UEFA confirmed the jersey change in Portugal’s updated squad list ahead of the meeting with Denmark in Copenhagen. Leão, who usually wears the No.17 shirt for Portugal, has been handed the No.7 jersey for the two fixtures, while newly called-up forward Fábio Silva will wear Leão’s former No.17.

The development comes after Ronaldo left the Portugal camp on Wednesday amid reports of tension between the veteran forward and head coach Jorge Jesus.

Ronaldo was an unused substitute during Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Norway on Sunday after featuring from the start in the team’s previous 1-0 win over Wales.

Following his departure, the 41-year-old forward said on social media that he would eventually disclose “the truth about the reasons” behind his decision to leave the camp.

Reports have linked Ronaldo’s exit to a disagreement with Jesus, as well as discussions involving Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proença.

The veteran striker could also face disciplinary measures over his departure. Regulations of the Portuguese Football Federation reportedly state that a player who leaves national-team duty without sufficient justification could be suspended for between one and six months. Professional players may also face a fine ranging from €500 to €1,000.

Meanwhile, Jesus has defended his decision to leave Ronaldo on the bench against Norway, insisting that team selection remains solely within his authority.

The coach maintained that he has the final say on who plays, stressing that no player or football official can force him to change his decisions.

Portugal currently sit top of Group A4 after victories over Wales and Norway. The team will travel to Copenhagen to face Denmark before hosting Norway at the Estádio do Dragão on Sunday.