Be it superstition, tradition, or some other personal comfort, athletes undoubtedly grow attached to their jersey numbers as if it’s an extension of who they are or how they play.
Amidst this weeks’ reshuffling of roster numbers, Columbus Crew SC midfielder Artur — originally bearing No. 7 for the Black & Gold — came across an opportunity to return to his roots, in a way.
The Brazilian native, now donning No. 8 for Crew SC, said he liked his original number designation, but that No. 8 represented less of an opportunity and more of an homage.
“(I switched) because I like the number eight and my father’s lucky number is number eight also,” Artur said on wearing the number he longed for as a child.
Though his father did not play professionally, Artur said he was a good player in city recreational games and considered No. 8 to be his lucky number.
“I remember when I was younger, I was always thinking [about] using the number eight,” Artur recalled.
Given its history, the number just seems to fit well on Artur, according to his father.
“He was happy,” Artur said as he relayed his father’s thoughts and comments. “'It looks good on you. It is my lucky number.”
Through 21 starts for Columbus this season, Artur, who is still searching for his first regular-season MLS goal, hopes the change-up will pave the way on the offensive end for the central midfielder.
“It will be nice for me, using the number eight now, and I receive this number [thinking it will] bring me some goals,” Artur said lightheartedly.
Columbus returns to action against Atlanta United on Sunday, Aug. 19, with kickoff slated for 4 p.m. ET at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
