Liverpool Hand Ronald Araujo Rare Shirt Number That's Only Been Worn by 6 Players Before

Liverpool has assigned Ronald Araujo shirt number 4, marking a significant milestone for the defender as he joins an exclusive group of just six players to wear the prestigious digit at Anfield. The last player to don this number was José Enrique, who left the club in 2014 after seven seasons. Araujo's arrival from Barcelona represents a major defensive reinforcement for the Reds, who finished second in the Premier League last season with 82 points, one behind Manchester City.

The number 4 carries considerable historical weight at Liverpool, previously worn by club legends and reliable defenders throughout the club's storied 133-year history. Araujo brings Champions League pedigree and La Liga experience after spending five seasons at Barcelona, where he made over 150 appearances and established himself as one of Europe's top center-backs. The Uruguayan international, capped 33 times by his country, joins a Liverpool squad that shipped 28 goals in 38 league matches last term, highlighting the club's need for strengthened defensive stability under manager Arne Slot.

Araujo's assignment as number 4 indicates Liverpool's confidence in him becoming a long-term cornerstone of their backline, with the shirt number typically reserved for senior defensive figures. The 24-year-old will compete alongside established defenders Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté for starting positions as Liverpool targets Premier League glory next season. With the Reds investing heavily in this transfer window to challenge Manchester City's dominance, Araujo's arrival and prestigious shirt assignment underscore the club's ambitions for an immediate title push.