The number 7 jersey is legendary, worn by players whose skill, charisma, and achievements have shaped soccer history. These icons dazzled fans, broke records, and collected trophies, leaving an enduring legacy. Here are ten of the greatest to ever wear this iconic number.
1. Manuel Francisco dos Santos (Garrincha)
Known for his dazzling dribbling skills and playmaking genius, Garrincha is celebrated as one of Brazil’s all-time greats. He donned the number 7 jersey with distinction, embodying the spirit of the “beautiful game.” His incredible balance and skill on the ball left defenders bewildered, while his creativity led Brazil to two World Cup victories in 1958 and 1962. In the absence of Pelé during parts of the 1962 tournament, Garrincha became Brazil’s driving force, securing both individual and collective glory.
Across his career, Garrincha’s trophy cabinet includes two World Cups, an exceptional feat that solidified his legacy. His contributions to Botafogo, where he played most of his club career, were equally vital, helping them win several state championships. He was beloved not only for his talents but for his charisma on and off the field, leaving an indelible mark on soccer history.
2. Cristiano Ronaldo
Among modern soccer legends, Cristiano Ronaldo has redefined excellence, particularly while wearing the number 7. Known for his powerful shots, versatility, and unrivaled work ethic, Ronaldo has claimed numerous titles, including five Ballon d’Or awards. His tenure with Manchester United, Real Madrid, and later Juventus saw him win league titles, Champions Leagues, and individual honors, proving his skill across multiple leagues.
With over 30 trophies, Ronaldo’s achievements span league titles, Champions League titles, and international victories with Portugal, including the 2016 European Championship. His commitment to fitness and performance continues to inspire athletes worldwide, marking him as one of the most successful players to ever wear the number 7.
3. George Best
George Best’s artistry and flair on the field make him an unforgettable name in soccer. A central figure in Manchester United’s history, he wore the number 7 jersey with style, captivating fans with his dribbling and balance. Best’s talent shone brightest in 1968 when he won the Ballon d’Or and led United to their first European Cup victory. His dazzling play style, often compared to that of a rock star, made him an icon in the world of sports and beyond.
Though his career was shorter than many, Best’s influence on the game remains timeless. He won two English league titles and various individual awards, including the Ballon d’Or, showcasing his unique place in the sport. Best’s charisma and skill turned him into a global icon, celebrated as much for his off-field allure as his on-field brilliance.
4. Raúl González
As one of Real Madrid’s most loyal and consistent players, Raúl González set an enduring standard in the famed number 7 jersey. Known for his intelligent positioning and calm finishing, Raúl became Madrid’s all-time leading scorer before Cristiano Ronaldo took over the record. His contributions helped Real Madrid secure three Champions League titles and six La Liga titles, solidifying his legacy within the club.
In total, Raúl boasts an impressive tally of 22 trophies, marking his excellence both domestically and in European competitions. Although he never won the Ballon d’Or, his consistency, loyalty, and humility earned him the respect of fans worldwide, making him an irreplaceable part of Real Madrid’s history.
5. David Beckham
Few players have embodied the number 7 jersey with as much style and charisma as David Beckham. Known for his exceptional crossing and free-kick abilities, Beckham became a global superstar during his time at Manchester United. His precision on set-pieces contributed significantly to United’s treble-winning season in 1999, which included Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League titles.
Throughout his career, Beckham accumulated over 15 major trophies, playing in England, Spain, the United States, and France. Although he never won a Ballon d’Or, his influence on the sport, fashion, and popular culture made him one of the most recognizable faces in soccer history. His legacy as a game-changer on and off the field endures today.
6. Eric Cantona
Eric Cantona’s swagger and passion on the field made him an unforgettable figure in soccer. Wearing the number 7 at Manchester United, he became a symbol of the club’s revival in the 1990s. Known for his creativity and audacious style, Cantona was a catalyst for United’s success, helping them claim four Premier League titles and two FA Cups during his time there. His vision and technical skill electrified fans, and his bold personality only added to his legend.
In total, Cantona’s career saw him lift over 12 trophies, and he was named PFA Players’ Player of the Year in 1994. His iconic upturned collar and intense charisma made him a fan favorite, while his impact on Manchester United’s resurgence under Sir Alex Ferguson remains profound. Cantona’s legacy lives on, not just in his accomplishments but in the inspiration he left for generations of players.
7. Luis Figo
Luis Figo’s career is remembered for his exceptional skill and the controversial transfer from Barcelona to Real Madrid. Wearing the number 7 jersey, Figo showcased incredible dribbling and passing abilities, becoming one of the most revered wingers of his generation. During his time at both clubs, Figo helped secure domestic league titles and Champions League glory, while his presence elevated Real Madrid’s “Galácticos” era.
In a career filled with trophies, Figo won the Ballon d’Or in 2000 and collected over 20 major titles, including La Liga, Serie A, and the Champions League. His move from Barcelona to Real Madrid remains one of the most shocking transfers in soccer history, but his legacy as one of the most skillful players to wear the number 7 remains untouched.
8. Andriy Shevchenko
Andriy Shevchenko’s lethal finishing and powerful shots made him a legend of AC Milan and the Ukrainian national team. Wearing the number 7 jersey, he led Milan to Champions League success in 2003 and won the Ballon d’Or the following year. Known for his speed, agility, and precision in front of goal, Shevchenko became a nightmare for defenders and one of the best forwards of his time.
Throughout his career, Shevchenko won 13 major trophies, including league titles and the Champions League. His move to Chelsea in 2006 was one of the biggest transfers of the time, though his impact in the Premier League was limited. Nonetheless, his influence on European soccer and his contributions to AC Milan ensure his place among the game’s greatest number 7s.
9. Kevin Keegan
Kevin Keegan brought an electrifying style of play to Liverpool, where he wore the number 7 jersey and became a fan favorite. His versatility and stamina made him a driving force on the pitch, helping Liverpool win three league titles and a European Cup. Keegan’s skill and leadership qualities were clear, and his move to Hamburg further demonstrated his ability, as he went on to win back-to-back Ballon d’Or awards in 1978 and 1979.
In total, Keegan won over 12 major trophies during his career, including the European Cup with Liverpool and the Bundesliga with Hamburg. His time in both England and Germany showed his adaptability and skill, and his legacy is cemented as one of the first English players to make a major impact on the European stage.
10. Franck Ribéry
Known for his agility, dribbling, and playmaking abilities, Franck Ribéry wore the number 7 with distinction, especially during his years at Bayern Munich. Ribéry’s influence on the left wing helped Bayern win multiple Bundesliga titles and a Champions League trophy in 2013. His combination of speed and skill made him one of the most dangerous wingers of his era, and he narrowly missed out on a Ballon d’Or after Bayern’s incredible treble-winning season.
Across his career, Ribéry amassed over 25 major trophies, primarily with Bayern Munich. His contributions to Bayern’s domestic and European successes earned him respect as one of the most accomplished French players, and his dynamic style made him a fan favorite in Germany and beyond.
