Manchester United fans have been left puzzled and frustrated after discovering they can no longer personalize official club jerseys with the names of Cristiano Ronaldo, David Beckham, or Eric Cantona. The move has sparked confusion, particularly among supporters eager to honour three of the club’s most iconic figures who famously wore the legendary number 7 shirt.
Cristiano Ronaldo, whose two spells at Old Trafford between 2003–2009 and 2021–2022 brought immense success, remains a beloved figure among the United faithful. He scored 145 goals and provided 58 assists in 346 appearances for the Red Devils, lifting eight major trophies and evolving into one of the game’s greatest players.
Despite his enduring legacy, fans attempting to personalize jerseys with Ronaldo’s name are being turned away. The same applies to David Beckham and Eric Cantona both legends in their own right. Beckham mesmerized fans with his pinpoint crossing and free kicks, while Cantona’s flair and leadership defined an era under Sir Alex Ferguson.
The restriction first came to public attention when a lifelong fan tried to purchase a Ronaldo shirt for his son at Manchester United’s official store, only to be informed that personalization featuring Ronaldo, Beckham, or Cantona was not allowed. The reason behind the restriction appears to lie in complex licensing issues.
All three players have built powerful individual brands post-retirement. Their image rights and commercial likenesses are now managed independently, often through third-party agreements. This means that even Manchester United the club where these stars made their names may need special permissions to use their identities on merchandise.
Manchester United has not issued an official explanation, but the issue likely stems from post-career brand management and legal entanglements that govern how a player’s name and image can be used commercially. As a result, the club is unable to offer personalized jerseys for some of its most celebrated alumni.
This decision has disappointed fans who view the number 7 shirt as sacred. Once worn by other legends like George Best and Bryan Robson, it represents a legacy that many supporters wish to continue celebrating. Until the legal hurdles are cleared, however, tributes to United’s greatest No.7s will remain limited to memories and highlight reels rather than newly printed shirts.
