Some of the best players in football history have worn Manchester United’s renowned number 7 shirt. In recent years, it has caused some dissatisfaction.
PHOTO:alexis sanchez
he number 7 shirt at Manchester United carries a lot of weight. It’s been worn by football legends like George Best, Eric Cantona and Cristiano Ronaldo.
However, recently, this famous shirt has caused some frustrations. Some fans even call it the ‘number 7 curse’ at United, due to the high transfer fees and poor performances from those who’ve worn it. Mason Mount is the latest player to wear the shirt, but his career has had a stuttering start due to injury.
Many athletes had similar issues wearing the number 7 jersey before moving on.
Angel Di Maria, a 2014 signing, sparked a surge of enthusiasm at Old Trafford. He was the standout addition that summer, following his performances in the World Cup and Champions League final. He began off well at United, scoring a famous goal against Leicester. However, his initial triumph did not persist. Clashes with then-manager Louis van Gaal, as well as a decrease in form, prompted his move to PSG in 2015.
Memphis Depay, a talented young player, moved to Manchester United from PSV for £25 million. At barely 21 years old, and following Di Maria’s departure, it appeared like he would dominate the left wing at Old Trafford. His tight relationship with fellow Dutchman and United manager Louis van Gaal made it appear like a great fit. He started well, particularly against Club Brugge in a Champions League play-off. But as fall came into winter, his performance decreased.
A missed header back to David De Gea against Stoke City summed up a difficult period for him and the club. When Jose Mourinho came in 2016, Depay struggled to get playing time. After 53 games and seven goals, he joined Lyon in January 2017 for about £16-17 million, which may rise to £22 million with add-ons.
The unveiling of Alexis Sanchez at United in January 2018, was exciting for fans. A memorable moment was him playing the piano in the United strip – some might joke it was one of his best performances. After a head-turning victory against Manchester City in a thrilling 3-2 game at the Etihad, Sanchez unfortunately sparked disappointment later on.
Following his below-par second season which saw Mourinho leave and only five goals in 45 appearances, he transferred to Inter Milan in 2019. Sanchez later confessed: “I realised a lot of things. After my first training session, I got home and told my family and my agent can I not rip up my contract and go back to Arsenal?”.
