The Greatest Number 7s in Football History
The number 7 shirt holds a special place in the world of football. Often associated with flair, creativity, and an indomitable spirit, it has been worn by some of the greatest players in the history of the sport. This article delves into the lives and careers of the top players who have donned the number 7, exploring their achievements, playing styles, and the indelible marks they have left on football.
In football, certain numbers carry a legacy that transcends generations. The number 7 is one such number, synonymous with brilliance and charisma on the pitch. Worn by wingers, forwards, and playmakers, it represents a blend of skill, pace, and creativity. This article ranks the greatest number 7s of all time, highlighting their contributions to the sport and their unforgettable moments.
Cristiano Ronaldo – The Modern Icon
Teams: Sporting CP, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, Al Nassr
Titles: 5 Ballon d’Or, 5 UEFA Champions League, 7 league titles, European Championship, Nations League
Cristiano Ronaldo, arguably the most famous number 7 in modern football, has set the bar incredibly high. Known for his athleticism, goal-scoring prowess, and dedication, Ronaldo has been a dominant force in football for over a decade.
Career Highlights
- Manchester United: Won three Premier League titles, a Champions League, and his first Ballon d’Or.
- Real Madrid: Became the club’s all-time top scorer, winning four Champions League titles and multiple domestic trophies.
- Juventus: Continued his success in Serie A, winning two league titles.
- Portugal: Led his national team to victory in the 2016 European Championship and the 2019 Nations League.
Playing Style
Ronaldo’s game is characterized by his extraordinary physical attributes, including speed, strength, and aerial ability. His versatility allows him to play across the front line, and his technical skills, coupled with his relentless work ethic, make him a complete forward.
George Best – The Original Superstar
Teams: Manchester United, LA Aztecs, Fulham, Hibernian, and others
Titles: 1 Ballon d’Or, 2 English First Division, 1 European Cup
George Best is often regarded as one of the most naturally gifted footballers of all time. His dribbling, creativity, and charisma on and off the pitch earned him the nickname “The Fifth Beatle.”
Career Highlights
- Manchester United: Integral part of the team that won the 1968 European Cup, the first for an English club.
- Individual Accolades: Won the Ballon d’Or in 1968, recognized for his incredible talent and contributions to football.
Playing Style
Best’s playing style was marked by his incredible dribbling ability, balance, and vision. He could glide past defenders with ease and had a keen eye for goal. His flair and unpredictability made him a joy to watch and a nightmare for defenders.
Eric Cantona – The King
Teams: Leeds United, Manchester United
Titles: 4 Premier League, 2 FA Cup
Eric Cantona’s impact on English football, particularly at Manchester United, is profound. Known for his enigmatic personality and exceptional skill, Cantona played a crucial role in United’s dominance in the 1990s.
Career Highlights
- Manchester United: Helped the club win four Premier League titles in five years, becoming a fan favorite and a club legend.
- Leadership: Known for his leadership on the pitch, Cantona’s presence elevated the performances of those around him.
Playing Style
Cantona was known for his technical skills, creativity, and ability to score important goals. His vision and intelligence on the pitch allowed him to orchestrate play, and his charismatic personality made him a true leader.
David Beckham – The Global Icon
Teams: Manchester United, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain
Titles: 6 Premier League, 2 FA Cup, 1 La Liga, 1 Ligue 1, 1 Champions League
David Beckham’s fame extends beyond the football pitch, but his contributions to the sport are undeniable. Known for his exceptional crossing, passing, and free-kick abilities, Beckham was a key player for club and country.
Career Highlights
- Manchester United: Integral to the club’s treble-winning season in 1999.
- Real Madrid: Part of the famous “Galácticos” era, winning La Liga in 2007.
- LA Galaxy: Helped popularize football in the United States and won two MLS Cups.
Playing Style
Beckham’s right foot was one of the most feared in football. His ability to deliver pinpoint crosses and score from free-kicks was unmatched. His work rate and dedication made him a valuable player for every team he played for.
Luis Figo – The Portuguese Maestro
Teams: Sporting CP, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Inter Milan
Titles: 2 La Liga, 4 Serie A, 1 UEFA Champions League, 1 Ballon d’Or
Luis Figo was one of the best wingers of his generation, known for his dribbling, vision, and ability to deliver precise crosses. His controversial transfer from Barcelona to Real Madrid remains one of the most talked-about moves in football history.
Career Highlights
- Barcelona: Won two La Liga titles and a Cup Winners’ Cup.
- Real Madrid: Integral part of the Galácticos, winning the Champions League in 2002.
- Inter Milan: Helped the club win four consecutive Serie A titles.
Playing Style
Figo was known for his technical skill, balance, and creativity. He could beat defenders with ease and deliver perfect passes for his teammates. His ability to control the tempo of the game made him a standout player.
Kenny Dalglish – The Scottish King
Teams: Celtic, Liverpool
Titles: 6 English First Division, 3 European Cups, 1 Scottish League
Kenny Dalglish is a Liverpool legend, known for his intelligence, creativity, and goal-scoring ability. His contributions as both a player and manager have cemented his legacy at the club.
Career Highlights
- Liverpool: Integral part of the team that dominated English and European football in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
- Managerial Success: Led Liverpool to further league titles and an FA Cup as a manager.
Playing Style
Dalglish was known for his vision, technical skills, and ability to link play. His understanding of the game and ability to find space made him one of the best forwards of his time. His leadership and influence on the pitch were invaluable to his teams.
Franck Ribéry – The French Wizard
Teams: Marseille, Bayern Munich, Fiorentina
Titles: 9 Bundesliga, 6 DFB-Pokal, 1 UEFA Champions League
Franck Ribéry is one of the most decorated players in modern football. Known for his dribbling, pace, and creativity, Ribéry was a key player for Bayern Munich during a period of domestic and European success.
Career Highlights
- Bayern Munich: Won the treble in 2013, including the Champions League.
- Individual Accolades: Named UEFA Best Player in Europe in 2013.
Playing Style
Ribéry’s ability to take on defenders and create scoring opportunities made him a constant threat. His pace and technical skills allowed him to excel on the wing, and his work ethic and dedication endeared him to fans and teammates alike.
Raúl González – The Real Madrid Legend
Teams: Real Madrid, Schalke 04, Al Sadd, New York Cosmos
Titles: 6 La Liga, 3 UEFA Champions League
Raúl González is one of Real Madrid’s greatest players, known for his goal-scoring ability, intelligence, and leadership. As the club’s former all-time top scorer, Raúl’s contributions to Real Madrid’s success are legendary.
Career Highlights
- Real Madrid: Won three Champions League titles and six La Liga titles.
- Schalke 04: Continued to perform at a high level in the Bundesliga, helping the club reach the Champions League semifinals.
Playing Style
Raúl was known for his positioning, finishing, and ability to score crucial goals. His intelligence on the pitch and leadership qualities made him a key figure in Real Madrid’s dominance during his time at the club. His versatility allowed him to play various attacking roles effectively.
Kevin Keegan – The English Dynamo
Teams: Liverpool, Hamburger SV, Southampton, Newcastle United
Titles: 3 English First Division, 1 Bundesliga, 2 Ballon d’Or
Kevin Keegan was one of the most dynamic and energetic players of his time. Known for his work rate, goal-scoring ability, and leadership, Keegan enjoyed success in both England and Germany.
Career Highlights
- Liverpool: Integral part of the team that won multiple league titles and the UEFA Cup.
- Hamburger SV: Helped the club win the Bundesliga and reach the European Cup final.
Playing Style
Keegan was known for his relentless work ethic, pace, and ability to score goals. His versatility allowed him to play both as a forward and a midfielder, and his leadership on and off the pitch was invaluable to his teams.
Juanito – The Heart of Real Madrid
Teams: Real Madrid, Burgos CF, Atlético Madrid
Titles: 5 La Liga, 2 UEFA Cups, 2 Copa del Rey
Juan Gómez González, known as Juanito, is a cult hero at Real Madrid. Known for his passion, dribbling skills, and flair, Juanito’s influence on the pitch and connection with the fans made him a beloved figure.
Career Highlights
- Real Madrid: Played a key role in the club’s domestic and European successes in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
- Spain: Represented his country in two World Cups and one European Championship.
Playing Style
Juanito was known for his technical skills, creativity, and ability to take on defenders. His flair and unpredictability made him a constant threat, and his passion and dedication endeared him to the fans. His legacy at Real Madrid remains strong, with fans still chanting his name.
Conclusion
The number 7 shirt has been worn by some of the most iconic and talented players in football history. From the modern-day brilliance of Cristiano Ronaldo to the legendary flair of George Best and the dynamism of Kevin Keegan, these players have left an indelible mark on the sport. Their contributions to their clubs and countries, along with their unforgettable moments on the pitch, have solidified their places as the greatest number 7s of all time. The legacy of the number 7 shirt continues to inspire and captivate football fans around the world, symbolizing the creativity, skill, and passion that define the beautiful game.
