There are two numbers that have brought luck to Samuel Umtiti during his sporting career: 22 and 23.

T. Juanmarti

He has worn the No. 22 successfully with France, and the No. 23 with Olympique Lyon.

Given that these two numbers are taken at FC Barcelona, by Aleix Vidal and Thomas Vermaelen respectively, we will have to await developments.

It is not ruled out that by the time the French central defender joins up with the Barça squad, on August 9, that there is some news regarding his number.

In any case, it would particularly excite Umtiti to be able to wear the same number as his friend and compatriot, the retired Eric Abidal.

So even if the No. 23 was within reach, everything suggests he would choose the No. 22 as a tribute to Abidal.

Though the topic of a player's shirt number may seem somewhat trivial, in the superstitious world of football, it does have some importance.

Denis Suarez has already made public his wish to take the No. 6 shirt, in honour of his idol Xavi Hernandez, now that previous occupant Dani Alves has chosen to move to Serie A.