Earlier this week, Man Utd released their provisional squad numbers for the new season.
There was one notable change. Anthony Martial, who last season wore number nine at Old Trafford, will vacate the shirt. Instead, the incoming Zlatan Ibrahimovic will wear nine on his back. Martial will wear 11.
#MUFC's provisional squad numbers for 2016/17: pic.twitter.com/dlwFy62Iaq
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 21, 2016
While Martial may be a player with a bright long-term future in the game, Ibramhimovic is undoubtedly the bigger name right now. The Swede is well-known for having a substantial ego, one which needs to be maintained. He said on Instagram this week that he had 'chosen' the number nine shirt. Also, the number nine shirt with Ibrahimovic on the back could be viewed as being more lucrative from a merchandising perspective.
According to French journlist Mohamed Bouhafsi, this is something about which Martial was not consulted.
Manchester United gave Zlatan Ibrahimovic the #9 shirt without informing Anthony Martial that they were taking it away from him ! 👎🏼
— Mohamed Bouhafsi (@mohamedbouhafsi) July 23, 2016
It's not about his number. It's a question of principle. Take a look at Martial's Facebook and you will understand ! https://t.co/1pq4T0Oicb
— Mohamed Bouhafsi (@mohamedbouhafsi) July 23, 2016
On his Facebook page earlier on Saturday, Martial - or whoever runs his social media accounts - appeared to make a point regarding the change of numbers.
Presumably, whenever Ibrahimovic departs Man Utd, Martial - should he still be there - will again take up the number nine shirt.
