Coming live from Old Trafford, Manchester United star praises one teammate calling him the backbone of the team. He Said, “He’s still young, but what he’s accomplished for this team is unbelievable—no other player, including myself, has come close to that level,” says Matthijs de Ligt, in awe of his young teammate. De Ligt admits he’s learning a lot from this rising star, who’s making waves at the club with performances that defy his age. It’s rare to see such maturity and influence from someone so early in their career, but this player is setting new standards. His impact is undeniable, and the entire team, even its most seasoned players, are taking notice.

Alejandro Garnacho is quickly becoming a vital asset for Manchester United, with his recent display against Barnsley highlighting his growing prowess. His performance in that match, where he netted two goals and provided two assists, brought his season tally to seven contributions in just six appearances. While he has garnered admiration from the Argentine media, the coveted No. 7 shirt still eludes him. At only 20, it’s a number he surely dreams of donning.

The choice to assign Mason Mount the historic No. 7 shirt following his £55 million transfer sparked debate. Many questioned if he was the right candidate for such a prestigious number, especially since opinions suggested Garnacho was still too young for that responsibility.

It must have been challenging for Garnacho to see someone else wear the jersey he desires. Yet, a little over a year later, his performances reflect his maturation into a player capable of not just wearing the No. 7 shirt but thriving in it.

The pressure associated with the No. 7 jersey is immense, as it stands as one of football’s most renowned numbers. Many players have struggled under its weight over the last two decades. Since Cristiano Ronaldo first wore it in 2003, only a select few, including Ronaldo and Edinson Cavani, have truly lived up to the expectations.

Mason Mount now joins a list of players—such as Alexis Sanchez, Memphis Depay, Angel Di Maria, Antonio Valencia, and Michael Owen—who have found it challenging to uphold the No. 7 legacy for various reasons. While Valencia has since established himself as a dependable club captain, his time with the number was brief and lackluster, underscoring the difficulties tied to such a historically significant shirt.

In contrast, Garnacho exudes ambition and self-belief, convinced he can be the next standout player to wear the No. 7, following in the footsteps of legends like Cristiano Ronaldo, Eric Cantona, and David Beckham. His impressive start to the current season suggests he is not merely wishing for the number; he is resolute in earning it.

Unlike others who have received the No. 7 without prior proof of their capabilities, Garnacho is eager to showcase his talent on the pitch. His confidence indicates he possesses the traits essential for succeeding with such a prominent number. If he continues his current form into the 2024/25 season, Manchester United may soon find themselves facing a challenging decision about whether to hand the iconic No. 7 shirt to him.