That's it! Ronaldo's No. 7 has been given to another Portugal player
Portugal's most iconic shirt number has a new owner.
Details: Rafael Leão has been assigned Portugal's No.7 shirt following Cristiano Ronaldo's dramatic departure from the national team camp. UEFA's current player profile for the winger already lists 7 as his national-team number, marking a symbolic change after Ronaldo wore the shirt for almost two decades.
The change comes as Portugal prepare for their UEFA Nations League meeting with Denmark without Ronaldo. The 41-year-old left the squad after several turbulent days surrounding his role under head coach Jorge Jesus, with the Portuguese Football Federation confirming that preparations would continue with the remaining players.
However, the number switch should not by itself be treated as an official retirement announcement. Ronaldo's own statement confirmed his decision to leave the camp, but he did not formally announce the end of his international career. Portuguese outlet O Jogo subsequently reported that his decision not to represent Portugal again is final and irreversible.
Leão had previously worn No.17 for Portugal, including at the 2026 World Cup, while Ronaldo remained synonymous with the No.7 shirt. The latest change therefore represents one of the clearest visible signs yet of a potential new era for the national team.
It is worth noting that Leão also changed clubs this summer. Galatasaray officially completed his transfer from AC Milan on August 30 for a fixed fee of €38 million and handed the Portuguese winger a four-year contract. At his new club, Leão wears No.27.
Reminder: BREAKING: Cristiano Ronaldo retired from international football
Steven Perez
Dailysports's expert
