The number 5 jersey has been worn by some of soccer’s most influential and skillful players, each bringing their own style, grit, and intelligence to the game. From defenders with unbreakable resilience to midfielders who control the tempo, these players have elevated the number to a symbol of strength and leadership on the field. This list celebrates the top 15 players who made the number 5 iconic, showcasing legends who achieved remarkable success and left a lasting impact on the sport.
1. Zinedine Zidane
Among the iconic number 5s, few have left a legacy as enduring as Zinedine Zidane. The French playmaker, known for his grace and vision, brought finesse to the number that often symbolizes strength. Zidane’s mesmerizing technique and creative play defined his era, making him a pivotal figure for both Juventus and Real Madrid. His contributions led France to win the 1998 FIFA World Cup and the UEFA European Championship in 2000, crowning him as one of the greatest in soccer history.
Throughout his career, Zidane collected numerous accolades, including three FIFA World Player of the Year awards and a Ballon d’Or. His trophy haul includes Champions League titles and league championships, summing up to an impressive 14 trophies. His influence remains unparalleled, with each memorable goal and assist adding to his legendary status among number 5s.
2. Carles Puyol
The number 5 jersey has rarely found a more passionate and resilient bearer than Carles Puyol. Known for his tenacity and leadership on the field, Puyol became the heart of Barcelona’s defense, guiding the team through an era of dominance. His commitment and unyielding spirit were crucial to Barcelona’s style, transforming the club into a powerhouse in both La Liga and the Champions League.
Puyol’s list of collective accomplishments is impressive, featuring six La Liga titles, three Champions League trophies, and numerous domestic cups. With the Spanish national team, he clinched the UEFA European Championship in 2008 and lifted the World Cup in 2010. Over his career, Puyol accumulated 20 trophies, a testament to his irreplaceable role in one of soccer’s most successful teams.
3. Fabio Cannavaro
Wearing the number 5 jersey with distinction, Fabio Cannavaro’s legacy stands out for his defensive brilliance and ability to read the game. Known as one of the finest defenders of his time, Cannavaro captained Italy to World Cup glory in 2006, a tournament where his performances earned him the FIFA World Cup Silver Ball. His skill and leadership on the field were instrumental, securing his place as the first defender in a decade to win the Ballon d’Or.
Cannavaro’s illustrious career included stints at clubs like Juventus, Real Madrid, and Napoli, where he amassed 13 trophies. His career honors highlight his success, from league titles in Italy and Spain to individual accolades that confirmed his defensive prowess. Cannavaro’s unique blend of technical skill and tactical intelligence helped solidify his place among the top players to wear the number 5.
4. Sergio Busquets
Sergio Busquets redefined the role of a holding midfielder while donning the number 5 for Barcelona and the Spanish national team. His tactical awareness and ability to read plays before they develop made him a silent architect in Barcelona’s midfield, where he seamlessly linked defense and attack. Essential to Barcelona’s Tiki-Taka style, Busquets was instrumental in helping the team capture numerous titles over the years.
Busquets’ contributions to the game have earned him over 30 trophies, including La Liga titles, Champions League victories, and a FIFA World Cup in 2010. His work ethic, vision, and technical prowess have made him one of the most reliable number 5s in soccer, cementing his reputation as a player who transformed midfield play.
5. Rio Ferdinand
In the annals of English football, few defenders have been as influential as Rio Ferdinand. Wearing the number 5, Ferdinand established himself as a rock in Manchester United’s defense with his physicality, aerial prowess, and composure on the ball. His leadership and defensive capabilities played a crucial role in Manchester United’s domestic and European success during the early 2000s.
Throughout his career, Ferdinand won six Premier League titles, one Champions League trophy, and numerous other domestic honors, adding up to 13 major trophies. His individual accolades, such as being named in the PFA Team of the Year multiple times, reflect his impact on the English game. Ferdinand’s legacy as a commanding presence in the number 5 jersey remains strong, marking him as one of the finest center-backs in Premier League history.
6. Michael Essien
Known for his strength, stamina, and versatility, Michael Essien was a powerhouse midfielder who embodied the number 5 jersey with pride. His dynamic play and ability to perform both offensively and defensively made him a vital asset to Chelsea’s squad during his prime. Essien’s relentless energy allowed him to control the midfield and support both ends of the pitch, becoming a beloved figure at Stamford Bridge.
Essien’s contributions were instrumental in Chelsea’s domestic and international success, helping the team win two Premier League titles, four FA Cups, and a Champions League trophy. In total, he collected 11 major trophies during his career, adding a range of individual honors that recognized his impact. His skill and physicality make him one of the most memorable players to wear the number 5 jersey.
7. Casemiro
Few players have mastered the role of a defensive midfielder as well as Casemiro, whose number 5 jersey became a symbol of stability at Real Madrid. Known for his tackling, positional awareness, and strength, Casemiro was the backbone of Real Madrid’s midfield during their recent European dominance. His ability to read the game and provide defensive coverage allowed his more attack-oriented teammates to shine.
With Real Madrid, Casemiro won five Champions League titles, three La Liga titles, and numerous other trophies, bringing his career total to over 15 major honors. His performances have consistently earned him praise as one of the world’s best defensive midfielders. Casemiro’s commitment and expertise in the number 5 role helped Real Madrid achieve an unprecedented era of success.
8. Marquinhos
As a central figure in Paris Saint-Germain’s defense, Marquinhos has embodied the number 5 with a unique blend of technical skill and defensive prowess. A versatile defender capable of playing as both center-back and defensive midfielder, Marquinhos has become a pillar of consistency for PSG. His calm demeanor and leadership on the field have helped PSG dominate the French league and become serious contenders in Europe.
Marquinhos’ trophy collection includes multiple Ligue 1 titles, French domestic cups, and international honors with Brazil, such as the Copa America. With over 25 trophies in his career, Marquinhos has established himself as one of the most successful and dependable players in modern soccer, making the number 5 jersey synonymous with reliability.
9. Claudio Gentile
Wearing the number 5 jersey with an intimidating presence, Claudio Gentile was one of Italy’s most tenacious defenders. Known for his aggressive style and exceptional marking ability, Gentile was a key figure in Italy’s defense during the 1970s and early 1980s. His performances during Italy’s World Cup-winning campaign in 1982 were legendary, as he effectively neutralized some of the world’s best attackers.
Gentile’s accomplishments include six Serie A titles and a World Cup title, adding up to a career with over ten major honors. While his style was often controversial, his effectiveness as a defender made him a formidable figure in Italian soccer. His contribution to the sport as a dedicated and fierce number 5 remains unmatched.
10. Thomas Partey
In recent years, Thomas Partey has made a name for himself as a dynamic midfielder wearing the number 5 jersey. Known for his strength, passing accuracy, and ability to disrupt opposition play, Partey has brought a new level of energy to Arsenal’s midfield. His adaptability and tactical intelligence make him one of the most promising midfielders in the English Premier League.
Though still building his career, Partey has already won major honors, including a Europa League title with Atlético Madrid. His impact at Arsenal has been immediate, with his performances helping to elevate the club’s aspirations. As he continues to evolve, Partey’s future in the number 5 jersey looks bright, promising even greater accomplishments.
11. Jorginho
Jorginho, a master of the midfield with a unique playmaking style, has worn the number 5 with distinction for both Chelsea and the Italian national team. Known for his precise passing and control over the tempo of the game, Jorginho’s skill in orchestrating play from deep positions has been invaluable to his teams. His performances have helped Chelsea secure multiple titles and led Italy to triumph in Euro 2020, where he played a pivotal role.
With Chelsea, Jorginho won a Champions League title, a Europa League title, and a UEFA Super Cup, among other honors. He has accumulated over 10 major trophies in his career, along with individual accolades recognizing his tactical awareness and technical skills. Jorginho’s influence in the number 5 jersey showcases his ability to dominate games through intelligence and precision.
12. Harry Maguire
Wearing the number 5 for Manchester United, Harry Maguire has brought resilience and aerial strength to his role as a central defender. Known for his powerful headers, leadership, and defensive awareness, Maguire became a crucial figure in United’s backline after joining from Leicester City. His defensive solidity and ability to distribute the ball from the back have made him a cornerstone of the team’s defense.
Maguire has yet to secure major trophies with Manchester United, but his contributions have been significant in their domestic and European campaigns. Despite facing high expectations and scrutiny, Maguire’s dedication and skill make him one of the most notable defenders to wear the number 5, carrying a legacy of resilience and determination.
13. Mats Hummels
German defender Mats Hummels has been a commanding presence in the number 5 jersey, bringing composure, tactical intelligence, and defensive acumen to both Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich. Hummels’ ability to read the game and his precision in passing set him apart as a defender who not only breaks down attacks but also initiates them. His performances have been instrumental in Dortmund and Bayern’s successes over the past decade.
Hummels’ trophy cabinet includes multiple Bundesliga titles, a DFB-Pokal, and a FIFA World Cup title with Germany in 2014. With over 15 major trophies, his career reflects his consistency and excellence as a number 5. His impact on German soccer, combined with his impressive skill set, makes him one of the finest players to have worn the number.
14. Benjamin Pavard
Though he typically plays as a right-back, Benjamin Pavard has often donned the number 5 jersey with the composure and confidence of a central defender. Pavard’s versatility and defensive solidity were showcased on the world stage when he played a crucial role in France’s 2018 World Cup-winning campaign, where he scored one of the tournament’s most memorable goals. His skill, combined with his tactical awareness, makes him a reliable figure in any defensive setup.
At Bayern Munich, Pavard has won numerous trophies, including Bundesliga titles, a Champions League, and domestic cups. With over 10 trophies to his name, Pavard’s career trajectory promises even more success, as he continues to solidify his place as a dependable and versatile number 5.
15. Jules Koundé
One of the rising stars in European football, Jules Koundé brings agility, speed, and defensive reliability to the number 5 position. Known for his ball-playing skills and quick recovery, Koundé has become a key part of the defense for both Sevilla and, more recently, Barcelona. His adaptability allows him to perform well as both a center-back and right-back, adding depth to his teams’ defenses.
Though early in his career, Koundé has already won the UEFA Europa League with Sevilla and has become a highly valued player in La Liga. His potential promises an exciting future as he continues to grow into his role, and his skill set makes him one of the most promising young players to wear the number 5. With time, Koundé could amass a trophy collection that rivals those of the greats on this list.
