The number 5 shirt has been worn by some legendary soccer players. Now, you might wonder, why should you care about jersey numbers? Well, these numbers aren’t just digits on a shirt; they’re badges of honor, symbols of a player’s style and impact on the game.
In this rundown, we’ll be taking you through a roster of soccer players who’ve defined the number 5 jersey. We’ll explore their strengths, their standout moments, and why they’ve earned their spot in the hall of soccer greats.
Some of the number 5 greats included in the article are:
- Zinedine Zidane
- Rio Ferdinand
- Michael Essien
- Carles Puyol
and many more!
Criteria for Selection in this List
To be considered for inclusion in our list, a player must meet specific criteria that reflect their exceptional contributions to the game while donning the number 5 jersey.
- Consistent level of excellence
- Influence on Position
- Association with Game-Changing Moments
- Legacy and Recognition
- Contribution to Team Success
- Recognition by Peers and Experts
- Cultural Impact
Despite thorough research, we might miss a few important number 5 soccer players. Let us know if we have missed any of your favourites in the comments.
Best Soccer Players Who Have Worn Number 5 Jersey
1. Zinedine Zidane
Zinedine Zidane wore the number 5 jersey for:
Embed from Getty ImagesZinedine Zidane (nicknamed Zizou) is a legendary figure in the world of soccer. Zidane’s playing style was marked by elegance and grace on the field.
His influence at Real Madrid as a number 5 is monumental. Zidane joined the club as a player in 2001 and later became the head coach in 2016.
Beyond trophies, Zidane brought a sense of unity to the team. His calm demeanor and lead-by-example attitude earned him immense respect in the dressing room.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 689 |
| Goals | 125 |
| Assists | 141 |
Honors
Individual:
- French Division 1 Young Player of the Year: 1993–94
- French Division 1 Player of the Year: 1995–96
- Serie A Foreign Footballer of the Year x 2: 1996–97, 2000–01
- FIFA XI x 4: 1997, 1998, 2000, 2002
- ESM Team of the Year x 4: 1997–98, 2001–02, 2002–03, 2003–04
- UEFA Club Midfielder of the Year: 1998
- World Soccer Awards Player of the Year: 1998
- France Football French Player of the Year x 2: 1998, 2002
- Onze d’Or x 3: 1998, 2000, 2001
- Ballon d’Or: 1998
- FIFA World Player of the Year x 3: 1998, 2000, 2003
- El País European Player of the Year x 4: 1998, 2001, 2002, 2003
- Real Madrid Greatest XI of All Time: 2012
- World Soccer Greatest XI of All Time: 2013
- Real Madrid Hall of Fame: 2014
Real Madrid
- La Liga: 2002–03
- Supercopa de España x 2: 2001, 2003
- UEFA Champions League: 2001–02
- UEFA Super Cup: 2002
- Intercontinental Cup: 2002
2. Carles Puyol
Carles Puyol wore the number 5 jersey for:
Embed from Getty ImagesCarles Puyol was a commanding central defender known for his unwavering determination and leadership on the field. With his trademark long hair and fierce tackles, he earned respect worldwide.
During his tenure at Barça, Puyol amassed numerous titles, including six La Liga championships and three UEFA Champions League titles. He was a cornerstone of the Spanish national team as well, helping them secure the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the 2008 Euros.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 682 |
| Goals | 25 |
| Assists | 14 |
Honors
Individual:
- La Liga Breakthrough Player of the Year: 2001
- ESM Team of the Year x 4: 2001–02, 2002–03, 2004–05, 2005–06
- UEFA Team of the Year x 6: 2002, 2005, 2006, 2008, 2009, 2010
- UEFA Club Best Defender: 2006
- FIFA/FIFPro World XI x 3: 2007, 2008, 2010
Barcelona
- La Liga x 6: 2004–05, 2005–06, 2008–09, 2009–10, 2010–11, 2012–13
- Copa del Rey x 2: 2008–09, 2011–12
- Supercopa de España x 4: 2005, 2006, 2009, 2010
- UEFA Champions League x 3: 2005–06, 2008–09, 2010–11
- UEFA Super Cup: 2009
- FIFA Club World Cup x 2: 2009, 2011
Spain
- FIFA World Cup: 2010
- UEFA European Championship: 2008
3. Franz Beckenbauer
Franz Beckenbauer wore the number 5 jersey for:
- Bayern Munich
- Germany
Franz Beckenbauer, also known as “Der Kaiser” (The Emperor), was a legendary German soccer player.
In the 1960s and 70s, he dominated the pitch as a central defender. His vision and passing ability were unparalleled. Beckenbauer won the FIFA World Cup both as a player in 1974 and later as a coach in 1990, a feat few can claim. His influence also extended beyond the field, shaping modern soccer tactics.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 620 |
| Goals | 74 |
| Assists | 75 |
Honors
Bayern Munich
- Regionalliga Süd: 1964–65
- Bundesliga x 4: 1968–69, 1971–72, 1972–73, 1973–74
- DFB-Pokal x 4: 1965–66, 1966–67, 1968–69, 1970–71
- European Cup x 3: 1973–74, 1974–75, 1975–76
- European Cup Winners’ Cup: 1966–67
- Intercontinental Cup: 1976
West Germany
- FIFA World Cup: 1974
- UEFA Euros: 1972
Fabio Cannavaro wore the number 5 jersey for:
- SSC Napoli
- Real Madrid
- Juventus FC
- Italy
Fabio Cannavaro was known for his tenacity and defensive prowess. And he became one of the best defenders ever, standing at just 5 feet 9 inches.
Cannavaro’s crowning achievement came in 2006 when he captained Italy to World Cup victory. His leadership and resilience on the field were instrumental in Italy’s success.
Throughout his career, he showcased exceptional skills in reading the game and making crucial tackles.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 693 |
| Goals | 18 |
| Assists | 5 |
Honors
Individual:
- UEFA Under-21 Championship Golden Player: 1996
- UEFA Euro Team of the Tournament: 2000
- FIFA World Player of the Year: 2006
- Ballon d’Or: 2006
- 2006 FIFA World Cup: Silver Ball
- World Soccer Player of the Year: 2006
- Serie A Footballer of the Year: 2006
- Serie A Defender of the Year: 2005, 2006
- Italian Football Hall of Fame: 2014
Parma:
- Coppa Italia x 2: 1998–99, 2001–02
- Supercoppa Italiana: 1999
- UEFA Cup: 1998–99
Juventus:
- Serie A x 2: 2004–05, 2005–06 (later revoked due to Calciopoli scandal)
Real Madrid:
- La Liga x 2: 2006–07, 2007–08
- Supercopa de España: 2008
Italy:
- FIFA World Cup: 2006
5. Sergio Busquets
Sergio Busquets has worn the number 5 jersey for:
- FC Barcelona
- Inter Miami CF
- Spain
After the retirement of Puyol, Sergio Busquets took the reigns of number 5 for both Barcelona and Spain. He is is renowned for his exceptional ball control and tactical intelligence.
His ability to read the game and intercept passes is second to none. Busquets played a pivotal role in Spain’s triumphs at the 2010 World Cup and the 2012 European Championship. Despite his unassuming demeanor, he’s a powerhouse on the field.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 737 |
| Goals | 18 |
| Assists | 46 |
Honors
Individual:
- La Liga’s Breakthrough Player: 2009
- FIFA World Cup All-Star Team: 2010
- UEFA European Championship Team of the Tournament: 2012
- UEFA Champions League Squad of the Season: 2014–15
- La Liga Team of the Season: 2015–16
- UEFA La Liga Team of the Season: 2015–16
Barcelona
- La Liga x 9: 2008–09, 2009–10, 2010–11, 2012–13, 2014–15, 2015–16, 2017–18, 2018–19, 2022–23
- Copa del Rey x 7: 2008–09, 2011–12, 2014–15, 2015–16, 2016–17, 2017–18, 2020–21
- Supercopa de España x 7: 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2016, 2018, 2022–23
- UEFA Champions League x 3: 2008–09, 2010–11, 2014–15
- UEFA Super Cup x 3: 2009, 2011, 2015
- FIFA Club World Cup x 3: 2009, 2011, 2015
Inter Miami
- Leagues Cup: 2023
Spain
- FIFA World Cup: 2010
- UEFA European Championship: 2012
6. Rio Ferdinand
Rio Ferdinand wore the number 5 jersey for:
- Manchester United
- Queens Park Rangers
- England
One half of arguably the greatest center back partnership, Rio Ferdinand was the image of coolness in his number 5 jersey.
Ferdinand’s commanding presence and precise tackles were instrumental in Manchester United’s numerous triumphs, including multiple Premier League titles and a memorable Champions League victory in 2008.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 692 |
| Goals | 13 |
| Assists | 11 |
Honors
Individual:
- West Ham United Hammer of the Year: 1997–98
- PFA Premier League Team of the Year x 6: 2001–02, 2004–05, 2006–07, 2007–08, 2008–09, 2012–13
- FIFPro World XI: 2007–08
- Premier League Hall of Fame: 2023
Manchester United
- Premier League x 6: 2002–03, 2006–07, 2007–08, 2008–09, 2010–11, 2012–13
- Football League Cup x 2: 2005–06, 2008–09
- FA Community Shield x 4: 2003, 2007, 2008, 2011
- UEFA Champions League: 2007–08
- FIFA Club World Cup: 2008
7. Michael Essien
Michael Essien played wearing the number 5 jersey for:
- Chelsea FC
- PERSIB Bandung
- FK Sabail
- Ghana
Michael Essien first caught the eyes of mainstream soccer fans when playing for Lyon. This earned him a move to Chelsea, where he became a linchpin in their midfield.
Essien’s thunderous strikes and tireless work ethic made him a fan favorite. He played a pivotal role in Chelsea’s Premier League dominance and their memorable Champions League victory in 2012.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 545 |
| Goals | 58 |
| Assists | 22 |
Honors
Individual:
- Ligue 1 Player of the Year: 2004–05
- Ligue 1 Team of the Year x 2: 2002–03, 2004–05
- CAF Team of the Year x 4: 2005, 2006, 2008, 2009
- BBC African Footballer of the Year: 2006
- Ghana Player of the Year: 2007
- Chelsea Player of the Year: 2007
Chelsea
- Premier League x 2: 2005–06, 2009–10
- FA Cup x 4: 2006–07, 2008–09, 2009–10, 2011–12
- Football League Cup: 2006–07
- FA Community Shield: 2009
- UEFA Champions League: 2011–12
8. Laurent Blanc
Laurent Blanc wore the number 5 jersey for:
- Montpellier HSC
- Olympique Marseille
- Inter Milan
- Manchester United
- France
Laurent Blanc’s elegant style of play and precise tackles earned him a reputation as one of the finest defenders of his era.
This towering defender’s career spanned over two decades, showcasing his exceptional skills and leadership. Blanc’s journey began with Montpellier in France before making his mark on the international stage. His stints with clubs like Barcelona and Manchester United further solidified his status as a force to be reckoned with.
He also played a vital role in France’s victorious 1998 World Cup campaign.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 604 |
| Goals | 107 |
| Assists | 6 |
Honors
Individual:
- UEFA European Under-21 Championship Golden Player: 1988
- French Player of the Year: 1990
- UEFA European Championship Team of the Tournament x 3: 1992, 1996, 2000
- ESM Team of the Year x 3: 1995–96, 1997–98, 1998–99
- Pirata d’Oro (Inter Milan Player of the Year): 2000
- Trophée d’honneur UNFP: 2004
Montpellier
- Coupe de France: 1989–90
Manchester United
- Premier League: 2002–03
France
- FIFA World Cup: 1998
- UEFA European Championship: 2000
9. Raphael Varane
Raphael Varane has worn the number 5 jersey for:
- Real Madrid
Raphael Varane made waves as a number 5 during his days at Real Madrid. He joined the club in 2011, and from the get-go, he displayed extraordinary composure and defensive skills.
Varane’s partnership with Sergio Ramos formed the bedrock of Real Madrid’s formidable defense. During his tenure, Real Madrid clinched numerous titles, including La Liga and UEFA Champions League trophies.
He was part of a golden era at the club and will always be remembered as a key figure in Real Madrid’s success story.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 450 |
| Goals | 21 |
| Assists | 8 |
Honors
Individual:
- FIFA FIFPro World11: 2018
- UEFA Team of the Year: 2018
- UEFA Champions League Squad of the Season: 2017–18
- FIFA World Cup Dream Team: 2018
Real Madrid
- La Liga x 3: 2011–12, 2016–17, 2019–20
- Copa del Rey: 2013–14
- Supercopa de España x 3: 2012, 2017, 2019–20
- UEFA Champions League x 4: 2013–14, 2015–16, 2016–17, 2017–18
- UEFA Super Cup x 3: 2014, 2016, 2017
- FIFA Club World Cup x 4: 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018
10. Mats Hummels
Mats Hummels has worn the number 5 jersey for:
- Bayern Munich
- Germany
Most soccer fans associate Hummel’s career with his time at Dortmund. But he actually started his career at Bayern Munich’s youth academy.
He rejoined the club in 2016, bringing with him a wealth of experience and tactical brilliance from Dortmund.
Hummels played a key role in Bayern’s Bundesliga dominance, contributing to their string of titles. His partnership with fellow defenders added a formidable layer to Bayern’s backline. In 2019, Hummels returned to Borussia Dortmund, but his legacy at Bayern Munich remains etched in the club’s history.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 666 |
| Goals | 57 |
| Assists | 31 |
Honors
Individual:
- ESM Team of the Year x 2: 2010–11, 2011–12
- FIFA World Cup All-Star Team: 2014
- Bundesliga Team of the Season x 6: 2012–13, 2013–14, 2015–16, 2016–17, 2017–18, 2020–21
Bayern Munich
- Bundesliga x 3: 2016–17, 2017–18, 2018–19
- DFB-Pokal: 2018–19
- DFL-Supercup x 3: 2016, 2017, 2018
Germany
- FIFA World Cup: 2014
11. Marquinhos
Marquinhos has worn the number 5 jersey for:
Embed from Getty ImagesMarquinhos, in his number 5 jersey, has been a mainstay in the PSG team. Arriving in 2013, his skill and composure on the ball were immediately evident.
Marquinhos played a crucial role in PSG’s domestic and international success, helping the team secure multiple Ligue 1 titles and make deep runs in the UEFA Champions League.
His leadership and composure on the field has earned him the captain’s armband, further solidifying his status as a key figure in PSG’s history.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 448 |
| Goals | 38 |
| Assists | 11 |
Honors
Individual:
- UNFP Ligue 1 Team of the Year x 4: 2017–18, 2018–19, 2020–21, 2021–22
- UEFA Champions League Squad of the Season x 3: 2019–20, 2020–21
- Copa América Team of the Tournament: 2021
Paris Saint-Germain
- Ligue 1 x 8: 2013–14, 2014–15, 2015–16, 2017–18, 2018–19, 2019–20, 2021–22, 2022–23
- Coupe de France x 6: 2014–15, 2015–16, 2016–17, 2017–18, 2019–20, 2020–21
- Coupe de la Ligue x 6: 2013–14, 2014–15, 2015–16, 2016–17, 2017–18, 2019–20
- Trophée des Champions x 7: 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022
12. Frank Rijkaard
Frank Rijkaard played wearing the number 5 jersey for:
- Ajax Amsterdam
- AC Milan
- Netherlands
Frank Rijkaard, the Dutch soccer maestro, left an indelible mark on the beautiful game. He mostly played wearing the number 8, but a significant part of his career was also spent as a number 5.
Rijkaard’s playing career was nothing short of spectacular. He graced the pitches of clubs like Ajax, AC Milan, and Barcelona, earning accolades and titles along the way. Rijkaard was an anchor in the Netherlands national team, notably winning the European Championship in 1988.
His influence on the game as both player and coach cements his status as a true soccer luminary.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 545 |
| Goals | 97 |
| Assists | 51 |
Honors
Individual:
- Dutch Golden Shoe x 2: 1985, 1987
- UEFA European Championship Team of the Tournament: 1988
- Ballon d’Or – Third place: 1988, 1989
- Serie A Footballer of the Year: 1992
- ESM Team of the Year: 1994–95
- FIFA 100
- AC Milan Hall of Fame
Ajax
- Eredivisie x 5: 1981–82, 1982–83, 1984–85, 1993–94, 1994–95
- KNVB Cup x 3: 1982–83, 1985–86, 1986–87
- Dutch Supercup x 2: 1993, 1994
- UEFA Champions League: 1994–95
- European Cup Winners’ Cup: 1986–87
AC Milan
- Serie A x 2: 1991–92, 1992–93
- Supercoppa Italiana: 1988
- European Cup x 2: 1988–89, 1989–90
- European Super Cup x 2: 1989, 1990
- Intercontinental Cup x 2: 1989, 1990
Netherlands
- UEFA European Championship: 1988
13. Jude Bellingham
Jude Bellingham wears the number 5 jersey for:
- Real Madrid
Ever heard of a club retiring a jersey number for a 17 year old player? Well, Birmingham City did just that when Jude Bellingham left for Borussia Dortmund. That’s all you need to know about this player’s potential.
Bellingham’s vision, passing, and work ethic have earned him a place among the brightest talents in the game. He’s already made a mark with the English national team and looks set to have a promising career ahead.
Keep an eye on Jude Bellingham; he’s bound for great things in the world of soccer.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 182 |
| Goals | 33 |
| Assists | 28 |
Honors
Individual:
- Birmingham City Young Player of the Year: 2019–20
- EFL Young Player of the Season: 2019–20
- Championship Apprentice of the Year: 2019–20
- Bundesliga Team of the Season x 2: 2021–22, 2022–23
- Bundesliga Player of the Season: 2022–23
- VDV Bundesliga Newcomer of the Season: 2020–21
- VDV Bundesliga Team of the Season x 2: 2021–22, 2022–23
- VDV Bundesliga Player of the Season: 2022–23
Borussia Dortmund
- DFB-Pokal: 2020–21
Conclusion: The Best Soccer Players Who Have Worn Number 5
So, there you have it! Our list of the 13 best soccer players to wear the number 5 jersey.
From Beckenbauer’s elegant command to Puyol’s unwavering defense, each brought their own flair to the game. These players proved that the number 5 jersey isn’t just cloth and numbers – it’s a legacy, a symbol of grit and excellence on the pitch.
And as always, if you feel I’ve missed someone who should be on the list, then do let me know down in the comments.
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