The iconic number seven shirt at Manchester United is more than just a number. It carries the weight of history, expectation, and the incredible talents, who have graced Old Trafford while wearing it.
From the legends who defined eras to the brief and disappointing stints that left fans yearning for more, the number seven at United has been worn by players who either thrived under the spotlight or struggled to live up to its legend.
Here Are The 10 Best Manchester United Number Seven of All Time
1. Cristiano Ronaldo
Years at Man Utd: 2003-2009, 2021-2022
Appearances: 346 | Goals: 145 | Assists: 64
Ronaldo’s legacy at United is written in gold, and for good reason. When he first arrived at Old Trafford in 2003, he was a promising, raw talent. By the time he left in 2009, he had transformed into one of the best players the world had ever seen. He was everything the number seven represents—exceptional, ambitious, and an entertainer.
Cristiano was the heartbeat of United’s attack, winning three Premier League titles, the 2008 Champions League, and countless individual awards, including his first Ballon d'Or. His second stint at the club, while not as triumphant, did little to tarnish the magic he created in his first spell. Ronaldo owned the number seven shirt like few others before him.
2. George Best
Years at Man Utd: 1963-1974
Appearances: 470 | Goals: 179 | Assists: 10
If ever a player was destined to wear the number seven shirt, it was George Best. The Northern Irish genius didn’t just play football — he made it an art. His dazzling dribbles, mesmeric footwork, and ability to glide past defenders left fans, and defenders alike, in awe.
Best wasn’t just a player for United; he was United in the 60s, helping the club to its first European Cup in 1968 and becoming the first British player to win the Ballon d'Or. His contribution to the club, both on and off the pitch, was legendary as his name continues to echo through the stands of Old Trafford.
3. Eric Cantona
Years at Man Utd: 1992-1997
Appearances: 183 | Goals: 81 | Assists: 62
Eric Cantona was the first true “king” of the number seven shirt at Manchester United. His five years at the club redefined what it meant to wear that sacred jersey. The Frenchman’s charisma, audacity, and unrivalled talent turned Old Trafford into a stage where he performed with the swagger of a man who knew his place in footballing history.
His arrival in 1992 coincided with the beginning of United's dynasty under Sir Alex Ferguson. Four league titles and two FA Cups were just the start; it was his presence, his aura, that became just as important as his goals and assists. Cantona defined United’s winning mentality in the 90s.
4. David Beckham
Years at Man Utd: 1993-2003
Appearances: 394 | Goals: 85 | Assists: 120
Beckham’s time at United is synonymous with success — and a touch of flair. The England captain’s pinpoint crosses and trademark free kicks became his signature, but what made Beckham truly stand out was his ability to perform when it mattered most.
The midfielder was integral to United’s dominance in the late 90s and early 2000s, contributing to six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and a Champions League win in 1999.
Beckham’s global fame, which he achieved as much off the pitch as on it, helped elevate the club’s profile, but it was his work ethic and ability to deliver in clutch moments that made him a true United legend.
5. Bryan Robson
Years at Man Utd: 1981-1994
Appearances: 461 | Goals: 99 | Assists: 3
Before the likes of Cantona and Beckham, there was Bryan Robson — the heart and soul of United’s midfield. Robson’s time at the club wasn’t just defined by his leadership and gritty performances; it was his ability to perform under pressure that made him one of the greatest.
Often playing through injury and with relentless passion, “Captain Marvel” was the true embodiment of what it meant to wear the number seven shirt.
Robson captained United through some of their toughest years and helped lay the foundation for Sir Alex Ferguson’s future success. His contributions to the club’s three FA Cups and the 1991 Cup Winners' Cup remain a key part of United’s history.
6. Antonio Valencia
Years at Man Utd: 2009-2019
Appearances: 339 | Goals: 25 | Assists: 62
Valencia wasn’t the flashiest, but his consistency made him one of the most reliable players for United. The Ecuadorian’s shift from a winger to a full-back made him an invaluable asset during his decade-long tenure at Old Trafford.
While his time wearing the number seven shirt was brief, Valencia’s performances helped secure two Premier League titles and an FA Cup. His work ethic and versatility make him one of United's most underrated players in recent history.
7. Michael Owen
Years at Man Utd: 2009-2012
Appearances: 52 | Goals: 17 | Assists: 3
Michael Owen’s move to Man United was a surprising one, but he proved to be a reliable option when called upon.
While his time at United was hindered by injuries, Owen’s predatory instinct ensured he found the net when it mattered most, including his iconic winner in the Manchester derby. Although his stint was brief, Owen’s clinical finishing made him an important contributor during his time at the club, helping the Red Devils lift a league title.
8. Edinson Cavani
Years at Man Utd: 2020-2022
Appearances: 59 | Goals: 17 | Assists: 3
Cavani’s arrival at United in 2020 was met with mixed feelings, but the Uruguayan striker soon won over fans with his tireless work ethic and knack for scoring crucial goals.
Though his time at Old Trafford was brief, Cavani’s passion for the club, his leadership in the dressing room, and his crucial goals (including one in the Manchester derby) earned him a special place in fans’ hearts.
He gave up the number seven shirt for Cristiano Ronaldo’s return, but his impact on the pitch cannot be underestimated. Cavani was the embodiment of professionalism during his time with United.
9. Alexis Sanchez
Years at Man Utd: 2018-2020
Appearances: 45 | Goals: 5 | Assists: 9
When the Red Devils signed Alexis Sanchez, expectations were sky-high. After a brilliant spell at Arsenal, many hoped Sanchez would be the missing piece to elevate United to the next level.
However, his time at Old Trafford was marred by inconsistency and underperformance. Sanchez scored just five goals in 45 appearances, and despite flashes of brilliance, he never fully settled into the team. His time at United was short-lived, as he moved to Inter Milan after just 18 months.
10. Angel Di Maria
Years at Man Utd: 2014-2015
Appearances: 32 | Goals: 4 | Assists: 12
Di Maria’s time at United was brief but it certainly had its moments. Arriving with high expectations after a brilliant spell at Real Madrid, the Argentine showed flashes of brilliance in his first few months, providing vital assists and scoring a few crucial goals.
But the pace of the Premier League and a series of injuries quickly curtailed his progress. After just one season, Di Maria was off to Paris Saint-Germain, leaving fans wondering what could have been.
Comments