Karim Adeyemi will have to give up his favorite number at Barcelona.
The Borussia Dortmund forward has worn the No. 27 with pride at Dortmund, but that number is not an option at Barca. According to Spanish football publication Sport, Adeyemi chose the number because it brings back good memories of his early years and has accompanied him at different stages of his career.
Adeyemi is set to join Barcelona this summer after the transfer window opens, and he will have to choose a new number. The numbers from 1 to 25 are reserved for first-team players, while numbers from 26 onwards are used by those not registered with the first team.
This means that Adeyemi will have to choose from the remaining numbers, which include the 14, the No. 9, and the 12. The 14 is available after Marcus Rashford's departure, while the No. 9 is free after Robert Lewandowski's exit. However, it is likely that the No. 9 will be given to Julian Alvarez.
Adeyemi's preference for the No. 27 is understandable, given its sentimental value. However, at Barcelona, the numbers are allocated based on the team's needs, rather than personal preference.
The numbers policy at Barcelona is not unusual, as many clubs have similar rules. However, it is a reminder that, at the top level of football, numbers are not just a matter of personal choice, but also a matter of team strategy and logistics.
Adeyemi is likely to make his decision about his new number soon, and it will be interesting to see which one he chooses. Will he opt for the 14, the No. 9, or the 12? Only time will tell.
Source: Yahoo Sports
