British broadcaster Piers Morgan has criticised Portugal after Rafael Leão was handed Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic No. 7 shirt following the veteran forward’s departure from the national team camp.
Leão wore the number during Portugal’s UEFA Nations League match against Denmark on Thursday, October 1, after Ronaldo left the squad following tensions surrounding his playing time under new head coach Jorge Jesus. Portugal went on to defeat Denmark 4-2.
Reacting to the development on X, Morgan questioned why Portugal was treating Ronaldo in such a manner despite his contribution to the national team. He described the decision as “disgusting” and “shameful,” while highlighting Ronaldo’s commitment to Portugal during difficult moments in his career.
However, the reassignment of the No. 7 shirt was not necessarily a decision by Portugal to replace Ronaldo or retire his number. UEFA Nations League regulations require players in the matchday squad to be assigned numbers from 1 to 23, meaning the number could not simply remain vacant after Ronaldo’s withdrawal.
Leão, who normally wears No. 17 for Portugal, therefore took the No. 7 shirt, while Fábio Silva was assigned Leão’s previous number. The change has nevertheless generated debate because of Ronaldo’s long association with the number and his status as Portugal’s record goalscorer.
