In the world of football, every player is assigned a shirt number that represents their position on the field.
From goalkeepers to forwards, each number has its significance and is associated with some of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
In this article, we will explore the best footballer for every shirt number from 1 to 11.
1 – Goalkeeper: Lev Yashin
Known as the “Black Spider,” Lev Yashin is widely regarded as the greatest goalkeeper of all time.
His agility, reflexes, and shot-stopping abilities were unmatched during his era.
Yashin’s performances for the Soviet Union and Dynamo Moscow earned him the prestigious Ballon d’Or in 1963, the only goalkeeper to have won the award.
2 – Right Back: Cafu
Cafu, the Brazilian legend, is considered one of the best right-backs in the history of football.
With his incredible stamina, speed, and attacking prowess, Cafu was an integral part of Brazil’s World Cup-winning teams in 1994 and 2002.
He also enjoyed a successful club career, winning numerous titles with AS Roma and AC Milan.
3 – Left Back: Roberto Carlos
Roberto Carlos is renowned for his powerful left foot and marauding runs down the left flank.
The Brazilian left-back was an integral part of the Real Madrid “Galacticos” era, winning multiple domestic and international titles.
His stunning free-kick against France in 1997 is still considered one of the greatest goals in football history.
4 – Center Back: Franco Baresi
Franco Baresi, the Italian defensive stalwart, is widely regarded as one of the best center-backs of all time.
Known for his exceptional reading of the game, leadership qualities, and impeccable tackling ability, Baresi spent his entire career at AC Milan.
He won numerous Serie A titles and the UEFA Champions League during his illustrious career.
5 – Center Back: Franz Beckenbauer
Franz Beckenbauer, also known as “Der Kaiser,” revolutionized the role of a center-back.
The German legend was known for his elegance, composure, and ability to dictate the game from the back.
Beckenbauer won the FIFA World Cup as both a player and a coach, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
6 – Defensive Midfielder: Claude Makélélé
Claude Makélélé, the French midfield maestro, is widely recognized for popularizing the role of the defensive midfielder.
His ability to shield the defense, intercept passes, and distribute the ball efficiently made him an invaluable asset for the teams he represented, including Real Madrid and Chelsea.
7 – Right Winger: Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portuguese superstar, has dominated the world of football for over a decade.
Known for his incredible goal-scoring ability, athleticism, and versatility, Ronaldo has won numerous individual awards and led both Manchester United and Real Madrid to multiple league and UEFA Champions League titles.
8 – Central Midfielder: Andres Iniesta
Andres Iniesta, the Spanish playmaker, is regarded as one of the most elegant and intelligent midfielders of his generation.
With his exceptional vision, passing accuracy, and ability to control the tempo of the game, Iniesta was instrumental in Spain’s triumphs at the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the UEFA European Championships.
9 – Striker: Ronaldo Nazario
Ronaldo Nazario, also known as “The Phenomenon,” was a true goal-scoring machine.
With his blistering pace, exceptional dribbling skills, and clinical finishing, Ronaldo terrorized defenses during his time at Barcelona, Inter Milan, and Real Madrid.
He won two FIFA World Cups with Brazil and remains one of the greatest strikers of all time.
10 – Attacking Midfielder: Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi, the Argentine magician, is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
With his incredible dribbling, close ball control, and ability to create and score goals, Messi has won numerous individual awards and led Barcelona to numerous domestic and international titles.
11 – Left Winger: George Best
George Best, the Northern Irish football legend, was a mesmerizing left winger known for his flair, skill, and ability to beat defenders with ease.
Best played the majority of his career at Manchester United, winning multiple league titles and the European Cup in 1968. His style of play and charisma made him a true icon of the game.
