Manchester United supporters are eagerly anticipating the squad number that Joshua Zirkzee, the club’s recent £36.5m signing, will don. The number 11 jersey seems to be the likely choice for Zirkzee after a significant change in the squad.
Unlike Leny Yoro, who received the number 15 quickly, Zirkzee did not immediately receive a squad number upon joining the club.
Zirkzee previously wore the No.9 shirt for Bologna in the 2023/24 season. However, he had also worn the No.11 in his debut season at the Serie A club. The No.9 shirt became available at Old Trafford after Anthony Martial’s departure in June, but there were speculations that Rasmus Hojlund, who wore the No.11 last season, might claim it instead.
Zirkzee expressed his indifference towards the choice of number and was willing to defer to Hojlund. Eventually, Hojlund opted to switch numbers, leaving the No.11 jersey vacant for Zirkzee to take over.
The No.11 shirt at Manchester United holds great historical significance, much like many other iconic jerseys at the club.
Notable players like Charlie Mitten, David Pegg, Bobby Charlton, George Best, and others have donned the No.11 jersey over the years, leaving a lasting legacy associated with the number.
Ryan Giggs, in particular, had a remarkable career wearing the No.11 shirt at United for over two decades, winning numerous titles and leaving a lasting impact on the club.
Following Giggs’ retirement, several players like Adnan Januzaj, Anthony Martial, and Mason Greenwood have worn the No.11 shirt, each facing their own challenges and successes during their time at the club.
The latest recipient of the No.11 jersey, Rasmus Hojlund, has shown promise and potential for the future, aiming to continue the legacy of the iconic shirt at Manchester United.