The number 14 jersey has been worn by some of the most iconic and influential players in the history of the sport. Known for their skill, leadership, and ability to deliver in crucial moments, these athletes have left a lasting legacy on and off the field. From midfield maestros to prolific forwards, each has made this number synonymous with greatness. Here is a list of the greatest soccer players to ever wear the number 14 jersey.
1. Johan Cruyff
Few players have had as profound an influence on soccer as Johan Cruyff. The Dutch maestro revolutionized the game with his philosophy and skills, embodying “Total Football.” Known for his exceptional vision and creativity, Cruyff wore the number 14 jersey with pride for both Ajax and the Netherlands. His tactical genius extended beyond the pitch, shaping the future of teams like Barcelona through his managerial career.
During his illustrious career, Cruyff lifted 20 trophies, including three consecutive European Cups with Ajax. In 1974, he earned the Ballon d’Or for the third time, solidifying his legacy as one of soccer’s greatest innovators and playmakers.
2. Thierry Henry
Elegance, pace, and clinical finishing defined Thierry Henry’s career. Wearing the number 14 jersey at Arsenal, he became the Premier League’s all-time leading scorer for the club with 175 goals. His ability to combine flair and efficiency made him an iconic figure, especially during Arsenal’s “Invincibles” season in 2003–04.
Henry’s trophy cabinet is brimming with accolades, including two Premier League titles and two La Liga championships with Barcelona. He also won the 1998 FIFA World Cup and the 2000 UEFA European Championship with France, amassing 23 major trophies throughout his career.
3. Xabi Alonso
Precision and composure were the hallmarks of Xabi Alonso’s game. Known for his pinpoint passing and tactical awareness, he commanded the midfield for clubs like Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich. Whether breaking up play or initiating attacks, Alonso consistently delivered under pressure.
Alonso’s career includes an impressive 16 trophies, such as Champions League triumphs with Liverpool and Real Madrid. He also played a pivotal role in Spain’s golden era, helping them secure the 2010 FIFA World Cup and two UEFA European Championships.
4. Diego Simeone
Diego Simeone brought grit and determination to every match, embodying the spirit of a true competitor. As a box-to-box midfielder, he was renowned for his relentless work rate and leadership. “El Cholo” excelled for clubs like Atlético Madrid, Inter Milan, and Lazio while proudly donning the number 14 jersey.
Simeone’s career saw him win 11 trophies, including the Serie A title with Lazio and Copa América twice with Argentina. Today, his legacy continues as one of the most successful managers in modern soccer, redefining Atlético Madrid’s identity.
5. Casemiro
Casemiro’s dominance in midfield is unmatched. His defensive prowess and ability to contribute offensively made him a cornerstone for Real Madrid’s success. As the engine of the team, he consistently delivered stellar performances in crucial games.
During his time at Real Madrid, Casemiro collected 18 major trophies, including five Champions League titles. Now at Manchester United, his leadership and experience continue to shine, as he looks to add more silverware to his impressive résumé.
6. Patrick Vieira
Dynamic and commanding, Patrick Vieira epitomized strength and finesse in midfield. Wearing the number 14 jersey at Arsenal, he was instrumental in their success during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Vieira’s leadership and physical dominance made him the backbone of the iconic “Invincibles” team.
Across his career, Vieira secured 16 major trophies, including three Premier League titles and five Serie A titles with Juventus and Inter Milan. His contributions to France’s 1998 FIFA World Cup and 2000 UEFA European Championship victories solidified his reputation as one of soccer’s elite midfielders.
7. Luka Modrić
Luka Modrić’s incredible vision and technical skills have made him a legend in modern soccer. Known for his ability to control games from the midfield, he wore the number 14 jersey early in his career with Dinamo Zagreb and Tottenham Hotspur. His career reached new heights with Real Madrid, where he became indispensable.
Modrić has won 23 major trophies, including five Champions League titles. In 2018, he became the first player in a decade to break the Messi-Ronaldo duopoly by winning the Ballon d’Or after leading Croatia to the FIFA World Cup final.
8. Guti
Few players combined flair and audacity like Guti. Known for his mesmerizing assists and creativity, he wore the number 14 jersey during his illustrious career at Real Madrid. His no-look passes and technical brilliance made him a fan favorite, even in a star-studded squad.
Guti won 15 major trophies, including three Champions League titles and five La Liga championships. Though he rarely sought the spotlight, his contributions to Madrid’s success were undeniable, showcasing the art of playmaking at its finest.
9. Javier Mascherano
Javier Mascherano’s tenacity and tactical intelligence defined his career. As a defensive midfielder and later as a center-back, he excelled at breaking up opposition play and providing stability to his team. Wearing the number 14 jersey for Argentina and Barcelona, Mascherano consistently delivered under pressure.
Mascherano’s career boasts 22 major trophies, including five La Liga titles and two Champions League titles with Barcelona. His leadership helped Argentina reach the FIFA World Cup final in 2014, further cementing his place as a legend in the game.
10. Javier Hernandez “Chicharito”
Known for his instinctive finishing and knack for scoring crucial goals, Javier Hernandez, or “Chicharito,” brought energy and enthusiasm to every match. The Mexican forward donned the number 14 jersey with pride at Manchester United, where he quickly became a fan favorite for his poacher’s instinct.
Chicharito has won eight major trophies, including two Premier League titles. His contributions to Mexico’s national team are equally impressive, as he holds the record for the country’s all-time top scorer, making him a true icon of Mexican soccer.
11. N’Golo Kanté
N’Golo Kanté’s relentless energy and unmatched work rate have made him one of the most admired midfielders in soccer. Often donning the number 14 jersey for Leicester City and Chelsea, he played a pivotal role in some of the most remarkable achievements in recent years. His ability to cover ground and break up play is unparalleled.
Kanté’s trophy haul includes nine major titles, highlighted by the Premier League with Leicester and Chelsea, as well as the 2018 FIFA World Cup with France. He also earned the UEFA Champions League title in 2021, cementing his place among the greats.
12. Jordan Henderson
Jordan Henderson’s rise to prominence showcases the power of perseverance and leadership. As Liverpool’s captain, wearing the number 14 jersey, he guided the club to some of its most significant victories, including the 2019 UEFA Champions League triumph. Henderson’s ability to inspire his teammates has been a cornerstone of his career.
Henderson has won eight major trophies, including the Premier League in 2020, ending Liverpool’s 30-year title drought. His contributions extend beyond the pitch, as he embodies the values of hard work and team spirit.
13. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s explosive pace and lethal finishing have made him a standout striker. Sporting the number 14 jersey at Arsenal, he became a key figure for the club, regularly topping the scoring charts. His flair and charisma on the field have made him a fan favorite worldwide.
Aubameyang has claimed five major trophies during his career, including the DFB-Pokal with Borussia Dortmund and the FA Cup with Arsenal. His Golden Boot win in the Premier League further highlights his exceptional talent in front of goal.
