Sporting CP 2001–03 Home Retro Jersey - C.Ronaldo #28

Manufactured by Reebok, and featuring the sponsors "Banco Espírito Santo" and "PT", this classic green and white hooped jersey was the backdrop for Cristiano Ronaldo's emergence. It was in this kit that a teenage Ronaldo made his professional debut for Sporting's senior team in August 2002, instantly showcasing the raw speed and exceptional dribbling skills that would define his career. Wearing the number 28, Ronaldo quickly became a regular in the first team. His breakthrough moment is widely considered the pre-season friendly against Manchester United in August 2003, which so impressed Sir Alex Ferguson and the United players that they insisted the club sign him immediately. This jersey captures the very beginning of the journey for the player who would become a five-time Ballon d'Or winner and one of the greatest of all time.