Bruno Fernandes finally unveils dream Man Utd shirt number to match his tattoo

For the latest from the pitch sign up for our football newsletter

It may have taken a couple of years, but Bruno Fernandes finally can match his no.8 tattoo with the number on his Manchester United shirt starting from next season.

Following Juan Mata's departure this summer, the no.8 shirt became available, and it's likely that Fernandes ensured he was first reserve for the new strip after previously claiming it's the number he likes. Fernandes signed a brand new long-term contract last season, and now he's got his preferred number to go with it.

Fernandes has a no.8 tattooed on his wrist, and he wore the number at Udinese earlier in his career, before growing attached to it at Sporting Lisbon. And now he can finally wear it for United, as he looks to bounce back with the rest of his team-mates next season.

READ MORE: Man Utd 'accept they will lose Cristiano Ronaldo' as Erik ten Hag plans for future

The midfielder has enjoyed his time wearing the no.18 shirt as he holds a personal connection to it. "There are a lot of reasons for the no.18," he told United's official website when signing in 2020.

"It's a number I like. Number 18 is the birthday of my wife and another reason is, when I grew up, I saw Paul Scholes playing in it and for me having this shirt and this number of an amazing player is something I will enjoy. I know I have a lot of responsibility."

But Fernandes also admitted that the no.8 was close to his heart for another reason. He added: "The last three years I have played as No.8 because it’s the number my father had as a player and my birthday and it’s the number I like."

Fernandes had to wait patiently for the number to become available as Mata proudly wore it for many years at the club. But with the Spaniard departing, it's now time to hand it over to someone else.

It's not the only number that's become free either, as with Paul Pogba and Jesse Lingard leaving, both six and 14 are now vacant in the dressing room. Both are extremely desirable options, but not as popular the number on Cristiano Ronaldo's back.

Ronaldo is looking to leave United and the club have reportedly accepted his wishes to find a new club. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner only took the no.7 off Edinson Cavani last summer, but should he leave the club then it will be free once more.

READ NEXT:

  • Man Utd suffer double transfer blow with Arsenal now "confident" of signing Tielemans

  • Chelsea to make Cristiano Ronaldo offer to Man Utd worth less than Lazar Markovic

  • Harry Maguire watches England win as fans say 'better atmosphere than Man Utd games'

  • Manchester United FC
  • Premier League
  • Bruno Fernandes

Source: Read Full Article