Some soccer players make history not just with their skills but also with the numbers they wear. The number 19 has been worn by legends and rising stars alike, each leaving a unique mark on the game. Here’s a list of the top 10 players who proudly donned this iconic number.
1. Lionel Messi
Few players have left as deep a mark on soccer history as Lionel Messi. Early in his career, he wore the number 19 jersey at FC Barcelona, a period when his talent blossomed under the mentorship of Ronaldinho. Messi dazzled fans with his dribbling and vision, laying the groundwork for the extraordinary career that followed.
While donning the number 19, Messi won several trophies, including La Liga and the UEFA Champions League in 2006. Over his illustrious career, he has amassed over 40 titles, with his record-breaking seven Ballon d’Or wins making him a global icon.
2. Theo Hernández
Theo Hernández has become one of the most dynamic full-backs in modern soccer. The French left-back, known for his blistering pace and offensive runs, wore the number 19 at AC Milan during a transformative period for the club. His contributions played a pivotal role in Milan’s return to domestic dominance.
Among his accolades, Hernández helped AC Milan secure the 2021–2022 Serie A title, breaking an 11-year drought for the club. His trophy count includes several triumphs with both club and country, making him a key player for France’s national team.
3. İlkay Gündoğan
Few midfielders possess the composure and leadership that İlkay Gündoğan brings to the pitch. During his time at Borussia Dortmund, Gündoğan donned the number 19 and became instrumental in the team’s midfield, blending creativity with defensive solidity.
Gündoğan’s trophy haul includes Premier League titles with Manchester City and domestic cups in Germany and England. His most notable moment came in 2023 when he captained City to their first UEFA Champions League victory, adding to his legacy as a versatile and reliable player.
4. Dwight Yorke
Dwight Yorke was a forward who combined flair with clinical finishing, earning him a reputation as one of the Premier League’s most prolific strikers. Wearing the number 19 at Aston Villa and later Manchester United, Yorke was a nightmare for defenders.
His crowning achievement came in 1999, when he helped Manchester United secure an unprecedented treble of the Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League. Yorke retired with a trophy cabinet featuring over 15 titles, highlighting his enduring impact on the game.
5. Julián Álvarez
Julián Álvarez has quickly risen as one of soccer’s brightest talents. While wearing the number 19 for River Plate and Manchester City, he demonstrated his knack for scoring crucial goals and linking up play. His adaptability across forward positions makes him a manager’s dream.
Álvarez played a key role in Argentina’s victorious 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign, scoring critical goals throughout the tournament. At just 24 years old, he has already collected over 15 trophies, including the UEFA Champions League and the Premier League with Manchester City. He now continues his career at Atlético Madrid.
6. Raphael Varane
Raphaël Varane is a name synonymous with defensive excellence. During his early years at Real Madrid, he showcased an uncanny ability to read the game and deliver clutch performances in high-pressure moments. His composure on the ball and aerial prowess made him an indispensable figure in a backline filled with stars.
With over 20 trophies to his name, including four UEFA Champions League titles and a FIFA World Cup win with France in 2018, Varane’s career is a testament to his consistency and ability to rise to any occasion. Now at Manchester United, he continues to demonstrate his world-class defensive skills.
7. Franck Kessié
Franck Kessié is a midfield powerhouse whose versatility and endurance have earned him a spot among soccer’s elite. Known for his physicality and tactical awareness, Kessié played a crucial role in AC Milan’s resurgence, helping them secure the Serie A title in 2021–2022 after an 11-year wait.
Now a key figure at Al-Ahli, Kessié has amassed multiple accolades, including domestic titles and continental success with Ivory Coast. His ability to balance defensive duties with goal-scoring contributions sets him apart as one of the most complete midfielders in the game.
8. Dani Ceballos
Dani Ceballos is a creative midfielder who excels at unlocking defenses with his passing and technical ability. During his career, he has impressed with his vision and control, particularly during his stints with Real Betis and Real Madrid. His style of play blends elegance with effectiveness, making him a joy to watch.
Ceballos has lifted several trophies, including La Liga and the UEFA Champions League with Real Madrid. He also contributed significantly to Spain’s success in the UEFA European U-21 Championship, showcasing his potential as a leader for club and country.
9. Lamine Yamal
Lamine Yamal made history as one of the brightest young talents at UEFA Euro 2024. At just 16 years old for most of the tournament, he was instrumental in Spain’s journey to becoming champions. Across seven matches, he delivered one goal and four decisive passes, showcasing his exceptional vision and composure on the ball. Remarkably, he turned 17 the day before the final, capping off a breakthrough performance with a historic trophy.
Currently a standout at FC Barcelona, Yamal’s achievements at such a young age have already set him apart as a future star. His creativity and fearless play promise an extraordinary career ahead for both club and country.
10. Leonardo Bonucci
Leonardo Bonucci is one of the finest defenders of his generation, known for his leadership and tactical intelligence. During his long career, he has been a cornerstone for both Juventus and Italy, playing a crucial role in his teams’ successes. His ability to organize the defense and initiate attacks has been instrumental.
Bonucci’s career highlights include winning the UEFA European Championship with Italy in 2021 and multiple Serie A titles with Juventus. With over 20 trophies to his name, his legacy is firmly established as one of the greatest defenders in modern soccer.
