Man Utd reveal four new squad numbers for academy stars with one getting Paul Pogba’s old shirt
MANCHESTER UNITED have awarded four of the club’s most promising young stars with new squad numbers.
The Red Devils returned to Carrington for pre-season training last week ahead of the 2023-24 campaign.
Four academy prospects joined the first team in training, with each player hoping to break into Erik ten Hag‘s side for the club’s upcoming friendlies against Leeds and Lyon.
All four stars were also handed new squad numbers in preparation for the new season.
Homegrown midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has been handed the No.37 shirt after previously wearing the No.73.
The 18-year-old, who has already made three senior appearances for Man Utd, impressed Ten Hag in training last week.
Reserve goalkeeper Matej Kovar has also had his number changed, moving from No.40 to No.38 following Axel Tuanzebe‘s departure.
Although he is yet to make his first-team debut, Kovar has impressed during loan spells with Swindon Town, Burton Albion, and Sparta Prague respectively.
Midfield ace Daniel Gore has claimed the No.44 shirt following his impressive season for United’s Under-21’s.
The 18-year-old was presented with the Denzil Haroun Reserve Player of the Year Award in May following his successful campaign.
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Spanish superstar Alvaro Fernandez, who spent the 2022-23 season on loan at Preston North End in the Championship, has swapped the No.72 for the No.42, which was previously worn by Paul Pogba during his first stint at Old Trafford.
Pogba joined Man Utd’s academy in 2009 and was promoted to the first team two years later.
He left the Red Devils to join Juventus on a free transfer in 2012 and enjoyed four years in Italy before returning to Manchester in a huge £89million move.
The midfielder spent another six years at Old Trafford before joining Juventus for free again last summer.
However, his first season back in Italy was marred by several injury issues, meaning he made just 10 appearances across all competitions.
Man Utd are set to travel to the USA next week for a pre-season tour, where they will face Arsenal, Wrexham, Real Madrid, and Borussia Dortmund.
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