Rafael Leão Steps Into Portugal's No. 7 Shirt After Ronaldo Exits Camp

UEFA has officially confirmed that Portuguese winger Rafael Leão is set to don the iconic No. 7 jersey for his national team in their upcoming two UEFA Nations League fixtures. This development follows the recent departure of superstar Cristiano Ronaldo from the national squad. Leão, who typically wears the No. 17 shirt for the Seleção, has been listed as No. 7 on the official team sheet for Thursday's encounter against Denmark in Copenhagen and Sunday's home game versus Norway.

A football transfer expert confirmed this on Thursday, stating, “UEFA confirm Rafael Leão has been listed as Portugal No7 for the next two games following Cristiano leaving.” Consequently, new call-up Fábio Silva has been allocated Leão's previous number, 17. This numbering adjustment is a requirement under UEFA Nations League regulations, which stipulate that all 23 players in the matchday squad must wear consecutive numbers ranging from 1 to 23 without any omissions.

Ronaldo's exit from the Portugal camp occurred on Wednesday, after he was an unused substitute during Sunday's 2-1 victory over Norway. The 41-year-old had, however, featured as a starter in the preceding match, a 1-0 win against Wales, which marked coach Jorge Jesus's inaugural game at the helm.

Currently, Portugal leads Group A4, having secured two wins. They are scheduled to play at Parken Stadium tonight against Denmark before returning home to host Norway at the Estádio do Dragão on Sunday.