Liverpool FC has announced temporary shirt numbers for its new signings ahead of a pre-season friendly against Preston North End on July 30, 2023. The club is currently navigating a busy transfer period, which has led to this provisional arrangement before official numbers are confirmed later in the summer. This friendly match will provide fans with their first opportunity to see new recruits, including Florian Wirtz, Milos Kerkez, and Jeremie Frimpong, in action.
Temporary Assignments Before Official Numbers
In a break from the traditional practice of announcing a new signing’s squad number upon their arrival, Liverpool has opted to assign six temporary numbers for the upcoming match. New goalkeepers Giorgi Mamardashvili, Freddie Woodman, and Armin Pecsi will wear numbers 55, 56, and 60, respectively. Meanwhile, Kerkez has been allocated number 57, Wirtz will don number 58, and Frimpong has been assigned number 59. It is unlikely that these numbers will carry over into the official squad for the 2025–26 season.
The decision to implement temporary numbers comes as the club prepares for its match at Deepdale, which is expected to attract significant attention from fans eager to see the new talent on display. Liverpool’s strategy reflects a departure from other clubs that routinely confirm squad numbers upon a player’s signing.
Future Changes and Potential Transfers
While the temporary numbers provide a short-term solution, the uncertainty surrounding several Liverpool players could lead to further changes. For instance, should Luis Díaz conclude his ongoing transfer saga and leave the club this summer, it is possible that Wirtz could take over the coveted number 7 shirt. Currently, numbers six, 12, 13, 15, 16, 23, 24, 28, and 29 are available for reassignment.
Frimpong, who has worn number 30 for the past five seasons at Bayer Leverkusen, is widely expected to retain this number once the season officially gets underway. For now, he will stick with the temporary number 59 during Liverpool’s pre-season fixtures.
As Liverpool continues to bolster its squad, fans will be watching closely for updates on permanent shirt assignments and any potential player movements in the coming weeks. The club’s proactive approach in the transfer market underlines its commitment to strengthening the team ahead of the new season.
