‘This is a joke!’, ‘suite Phil Foden better’ – Many Man City fans fume as Joao Cancelo is handed No.7 shirt

Manchester City fans have been left fuming at the fact versatile full-back Joao Cancelo has been handed the club’s No.7 shirt ahead of the upcoming season.

The Portuguese star, who was selected as the Premier League’s best left-back by the PFA in their Team of the Year for last season, has inherited the shirt from winger Raheem Sterling following his high-profile move to Chelsea.

Cancelo previously wore the No.27 shirt for each of his three seasons at the Etihad after joining from Juventus back in 2019. The 28-year-old has emerged as a highly influential player for Pep Guardiola’s side given his versatility.

The left-back by trade can also operate on the right side of defence, and has even been deployed further forward, in central midfield or as a winger. However, despite Cancelo’s tendency to involve himself in City’s attacking play, it seems the club’s fans are not impressed by his new number – a number so often associated with wingers.

“A full back wearing the number 7, the game has absolutely gone,” @MrKartShyam wrote in response to City’s tweet confirming the number change,

while @Williams16Dan added: “Unless they’re planning to turn Cancelo into a winger this is an absolute war crime.”

“This is a joke!…Foden should leave that 47 of his & get this 7”
Credit: @bling_moyo

“No 7 would suite Phil Foden better.”
Credit: @HeisSubas

“First Zinchenko wears #11 and now Cancelo will wear #7. Are Man City actively trying to break the unwritten rule of kit number aesthetics?.”
Credit: @TacticoModerno

“Doesn’t feel right but he deserves it if he wants it.”
Credit: @Nolongersane11

“Feels weird but he’ll do well, give 27 to one of the youngsters now!!!.”
Credit: @eppalengjo