United left the squad number empty for the remainder of last season after Cristiano Ronaldo’s acrimonious exit from the club in January.
Rather than handing the legendary jersey to a new summer signing, United is considering elevating youngster Alejandro Garnacho and conferring the honor of wearing the number donned by the likes of Bryan Robson, Eric Cantona, and David Beckham, according to the MEN.
The 18-year-old made his debut a little over a year ago and had a huge breakthrough last season under Erik Ten Hag.
Garnacho’s club success has earned him senior international recognition, and he made his debut for Argentina against Australia earlier this month.
The teenager’s reputation is such that Real Madrid considered making an ambitious play for him last year when his long-term future was unknown.
That speculation was put to rest when the Madrid-born winger signed a new contract with the Premier League heavyweights in April.
‘I dreamed of making my debut, playing at Old Trafford, scoring my first goal, and winning trophies with this emblem on my chest when I joined this magnificent club,’ he stated at the time.
‘I feel really proud and emotional to have already experienced these experiences with my family, who have been there for me every step of the way.
‘We are all humbled to have this opportunity to continue our journey at Manchester United, and I have already started working on reaching the next set of aims and ambitions.
‘The manager and his coaching staff have helped me improve in every aspect, and with their aid, I am developing every day to help the squad succeed.
‘I am looking forward to the future and can’t wait to make more unforgettable experiences with this group in front of our incredible supporters.’
