Diogo Dalot Was Denied The Chance To Wear His Favourite Number For Manchester United

Dalot joined United from Porto in 2018 and spent his first few years at the club on the fringes, before spending last season on loan at AC Milan.

His 55 appearances for United have come wearing the number 20 shirt, previously worn by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Robin van Persie.

In a recent Q&A on United's official website, Dalot revealed he originally wanted the number two shirt which is worn by Victor Lindelof.

The Portugal international explained: "When I came to the club, I gave a straight answer to the reporter. I think he asked me the same question.

"My favourite is always the number two which, at the time and now, it's being worn by Victor. So it was not available at the time and it's still not. Then I was turning 20 years in that year, so number 20 sounded good for me as well.

"Seeing the legends who had worn the number as well, it's been a good number. I like it so hopefully it can bring me luck as well as it did for Robin and Ole."

Lindelof arrived from Benfica a year before Dalot and wasn't asked to switch numbers.

Dalot and Alex Telles started Rangnick's first game in charge, a 1-0 win over Crystal Palace, but Luke Shaw regained his starting spot ahead of Telles.

That's not the case on the opposite flank and Rangnick believes Dalot is the best offensive full-back United have on their books.

"He’s offensively one of the best full-backs we could have. He still has space for improvement in his defensive actions, one-on-one duels, anticipating and closing the gaps between himself and his teammates. There is still space for improvement but he’s still a player who can develop and learn."

They return to action on Sunday against bitter rivals and league leaders Manchester City.