Some jersey numbers transcend the sport, carrying the legacies of legendary players who wore them with pride. The number 21 is no exception, graced by footballers who showcased extraordinary skill, intelligence, and leadership. Here is a list of the greatest players to ever wear this iconic number.
1. Zinedine Zidane
Renowned for his elegance on the field, Zidane’s legacy is tied to his creativity and vision. Wearing the number 21 for Bordeaux, the French maestro became one of the most admired playmakers in the world. His technical brilliance and composure under pressure led to unforgettable moments that paved the way for his stellar career.
Zidane’s trophy cabinet includes three FIFA World Player of the Year awards and a Ballon d’Or, among many collective titles. Throughout his career, he has accumulated 15 major trophies, including the UEFA Champions League and the FIFA World Cup with France. His years in the number 21 jersey set the foundation for a career that inspired generations.
2. Andrea Pirlo
Pirlo redefined the role of a deep-lying playmaker with his exceptional passing and ability to dictate games. While his stint wearing the number 21 at AC Milan and Juventus solidified his reputation, his knack for delivering under pressure stood out. Pirlo’s free kicks and pinpoint long balls remain iconic.
Over his career, Pirlo secured 20 trophies, including six Serie A titles and two UEFA Champions League victories. His crowning achievement came with Italy’s 2006 FIFA World Cup triumph. The number 21 became synonymous with his calm authority and unmatched football intelligence.
3. Paulo Dybala
Known for his dazzling footwork and left-footed strikes, Dybala is one of modern football’s most exciting talents. Sporting the number 21 at Juventus and AS Roma, the Argentine attacker gained recognition for his ability to change games with moments of brilliance.
Dybala has won over 15 trophies, including five Serie A titles and the 2022 FIFA World Cup with Argentina. While still active, he has consistently proven his worth as a playmaker and goal scorer, solidifying his position among football’s elite.
4. Philipp Lahm
Lahm’s versatility and leadership made him one of the best defenders in football history. Wearing the number 21 early in his career at Bayern Munich, he mastered both full-back and midfield roles with remarkable precision and intelligence.
Across his illustrious career, Lahm claimed 26 trophies, including the 2014 FIFA World Cup and the UEFA Champions League. His career symbolized consistency and professionalism, and his tactical awareness earned him universal respect.
5. Luis Enrique
Before becoming a successful coach, Luis Enrique shined as a dynamic player with Barcelona and Spain. Known for his tireless work rate and versatility, he wore the number 21 jersey with pride during his impactful years with the Spanish national team.
Enrique’s career brought 11 major trophies, including La Liga titles and a Copa del Rey with Barcelona. He also played a key role in Spain’s squads of the 1990s, showcasing his relentless commitment and tactical adaptability. His journey remains an inspiration to many aspiring players.
6. Frenkie de Jong
Frenkie de Jong has established himself as a pivotal figure in modern football, renowned for his exceptional ball control and tactical intelligence. His journey began with Ajax, where he played a crucial role in their domestic success, including clinching the Eredivisie title in the 2018–19 season.
Since joining FC Barcelona, de Jong has continued to amass accolades. He was instrumental in Barcelona’s triumphs, contributing to their La Liga victory in the 2022–23 season, as well as securing the Copa del Rey in 2020–21 and the Supercopa de España in 2023. His vision and composure under pressure have solidified his reputation as one of the game’s most talented midfielders.
7. David Silva
David Silva’s extraordinary creativity and consistency have left an indelible mark on football. Nicknamed “El Mago,” he became a cornerstone of Manchester City’s dominance in English football, dazzling fans with his precision passing and eye for goal.
Silva amassed 18 major trophies during his illustrious career, including four Premier League titles and two European Championships with Spain. His elegance on the pitch and knack for orchestrating attacks earned him a place among the sport’s greatest midfielders, cementing his legacy as a true magician of the game.
