In soccer, the jersey number 17 might not hold the significance that a number 7 or number 10 holds. But that does not mean it doesn’t have it own legacy. In fact, jersey number 17 has been worn by some great soccer players!
From seasoned veterans to rising stars, those donning this number have showcased exceptional skill, tactical prowess, and an unwavering spirit on the pitch.
This article delves into the lives and legacies of the top soccer players who adorned the number 17 jersey and reshaped the sport.
Here’s a sneak peek of some of the players included in the article:
- Kevin De Bruyne
- Pedro
- Alexis Sanchez
- Cristiano Ronaldo
and a lot more!
Significance of Jersey Numbers in Soccer
In the early days of soccer, there existed no formal system of numbering players. It was a time when the game was played with minimal regulations, and each player took the field with no assigned jersey number.
As the sport evolved and became more organized, the need for a systematic way to identify players emerged. This led to the introduction of jersey numbering in soccer during the early 20th century.
The first instance of numbered jerseys can be traced back to the 1920s when the system was adopted to simplify player identification for both fans and referees.
Numbers were assigned to players based on their positions on the field.
Over time, the significance of jersey numbers deepened, and certain numbers began to acquire unique meanings.
Jersey number 17, as we explore in this article, is one such number that has seen remarkable players leave their mark on the sport.
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 iconic number 17 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 17 soccer players. Let us know if we have missed any of your favourites in the comments.
Top Soccer Players Who Have Worn the Number 17 Jersey
1. Kevin De Bruyne
Kevin De Bruyne wore the number 17 jersey for:
- Manchester City
Kevin De Bruyne stands as one of the most influential midfielders in modern soccer. He started his career at Genk, but it was at Manchester City where he truly solidified his status as a world-class player. Through his performances, Kevin de Bruyne has truly made the jersey number 17 his own.
Disappointingly, him choosing number 17 doesn’t have any profound story behind it. In an interview, KDB said that number 17 and number 9 were the only numbers left to choose when he arrived at City. Since he’s not a striker, he chose number 17. And that’s how the greatest number 17 at Manchester City was born!
At Manchester City, De Bruyne’s impact has been profound. His precise passing, exceptional vision, and ability to dictate the tempo of matches have been instrumental in the club’s domestic and international successes.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 587 |
| Goals | 143 |
| Assists | 237 |
Honors
Embed from Getty ImagesIndividual Honors:
- Bundesliga Young Player of the Year: 2012–13
- Bundesliga Player of the Year: 2014–15
- Bundesliga Team of the Year: 2014–15
- Bundesliga top assist provider: 2014–15
- PFA Players’ Player of the year x 2: 2019-20, 2020-21
- Premier League Player of the Season x 2: 2019–20, 2021–22
- Manchester City Player of the Season x 4: 2015–16, 2017–18, 2019–20, 2021–22
- Ballon d’Or 3rd place: 2022
Manchester City:
- UEFA Champions League: 2022-23
- English Premier League x 5: 2017-18, 2018-19, 2020-21, 2021-22, 2022-23
- FA Cup x 2: 2018-19, 2022-23
- English League Cup x 5: 2015-16, 2017-18, 2018-19, 2019-20, 2020-21
- English Community Shield x 2: 2018-19, 2019-20
VfL Wolfsburg:
- DFB Pokal: 2014-15
- DFL Supercup: 2015
K.R.C. Genk:
- Belgian Pro League: 2010-11
- Belgian Cup: 2008-09
- Belgian Super Cup: 2011-12
2. Luis Nani
Nani wore the number 17 jersey for:
- Manchester United
- Sporting CP
- Fenerbahce
- Valencia CF
- Orlando City SC
- Portugal National team
There might not be a soccer player more recognized with the number 17 jersey than Luis Nani. Throughout his peak, Nani donned the number 17 jersey for both Manchester United and Portugal National Team.
Nani’s professional journey began with Sporting CP in Portugal, where his exceptional dribbling and flair on the wing quickly caught the eye of scouts. In 2007, he made a notable move to Manchester United, marking the start of a highly successful stint in the English Premier League.
Throwback to Luis Nani's first goal in a Manchester Utd shirt 🔴 🇵🇹
— 𝙇𝙈 🔪 (@EriksButcher) July 17, 2023
He performed magic from distance 🪄 pic.twitter.com/dsh2VLFN4s
During his time at Manchester United, Nani contributed significantly to the club’s successes. His blistering pace, precise crosses, and ability to score with either foot earned him a place among the club’s revered wingers.
Embed from Getty ImagesAfter his successful tenure at Manchester United, Nani continued his career at clubs such as Fenerbahçe, Valencia, and Orlando City.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 579 |
| Goals | 124 |
| Assists | 142 |
Honors
Embed from Getty ImagesIndividual Honors:
- PFA Team of the Year: 2010–11
- Manchester United Players’ Player of the Year: 2010–11
- Sporting CP Footballer of the Year: 2015
- MLS All-Star x 2: 2019, 2021
- Premier League most assists: 2010–11
Sporting CP:
- Taça de Portugal x 3: 2006–07, 2014–15, 2018–19
- Taça da Liga: 2018–19
Manchester United:
- Premier League x 4: 2007–08, 2008–09, 2010–11, 2012–13
- Football League Cup x 2: 2008–09, 2009–10
- FA Community Shield x 4: 2007, 2008, 2010, 2011
- UEFA Champions League: 2007–08
- FIFA Club World Cup: 2008
Portugal:
- UEFA European Championship: 2016
3. Eden Hazard
Eden Hazard wore the number 17 jersey for:
- Chelsea FC
Eden Hazard wore the number 17 jersey for his first 2 seasons at Chelsea, which he later changed for the number 10.
Hazard’s professional journey commenced with Lille OSC in France. His standout performances with Lille earned him recognition as one of the brightest young talents in European soccer and caught attention of the European giants.
In 2012, Hazard made a high-profile move to Chelsea FC, marking the beginning of a highly successful tenure in the English Premier League.
He wanted to wear the number 10 jersey from the start, but since Juan Mata already had the number, Hazard had to settle for number 17. Hazard had to wait for the number 10 jersey until Mata’s departure in 2013.
During his time at Chelsea, Hazard played a pivotal role in the club’s achievements. He was known for his ability to break through defenses like a butter through knife.
On This Day in 2013, Eden Hazard scored THAT goal against Sparta Praha 🚀 #CFC pic.twitter.com/fRDrhtfsjn
— CFC-Blues (@CFCBlues_com) February 21, 2023
This earned him a reputation as one of the most electrifying wingers in the Premier League ever.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 623 |
| Goals | 167 |
| Assists | 157 |
Honors
Embed from Getty ImagesIndividual Honors:
- Belgian Sportsman of the Year: 2018
- UEFA Europa League Player of the Season: 2018–19
- Ligue 1 Player of the Year x 2: 2010–11, 2011–12
- FWA Footballer of the Year: 2014–15
- Premier League Player of the Season: 2014–15
- PFA Players’ Player of the Year 2014–15
- PFA Young Player of the Year: 2013–14
- PFA Fans’ Player of the Year: 2018–19
- Belgium Player of the Year x 3: 2017, 2018, 2019
- Chelsea Player of the Year x 4: 2013–14, 2014–15, 2016–17, 2018–19
- FIFA World Cup Silver Ball: 2018
- UEFA Team of the Year x 2: 2017, 2018
Lille:
- Ligue 1: 2010–11
- Coupe de France: 2010–11
Chelsea:
- Premier League x 2: 2014–15, 2016–17
- FA Cup: 2017–18
- Football League Cup/EFL Cup: 2014–15
- UEFA Europa League x 2: 2012–13, 2018–19
Real Madrid:
- La Liga x 2: 2019–20, 2021–22
- Copa del Rey: 2022–23
- Supercopa de España: 2021–22
- UEFA Champions League: 2021–22
- UEFA Super Cup: 2022
4. Alexis Sanchez
Alexis Sanchez wore the number 17 jersey for:
- Arsenal FC
Upon arriving from Barcelona to Arsenal in the 2014-15 season, Alexis Sanchez swiftly became a linchpin in Arsenal’s offensive strategy. He played his first two years at Arsenal wearing the number 17 jersey, and delivered several memorable moments in that period.
His dynamic style of play and relentless work ethic injected a newfound energy into the team.
Throwback to this stunning Alexis Sanchez goal against Manchester United in 2015 pic.twitter.com/yXr6Jcn82X
— Throwback Arsenal (@ThrowbackAFC) February 8, 2022
At the time of his arrival, the 17 shirt number was made available by Nacho Monreal, who chose to wear number 18 instead.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 668 |
| Goals | 198 |
| Assists | 144 |
Honors
Embed from Getty ImagesIndividual Honors:
- Arsenal Player of the Season Award x 2: 2014–15, 2016–17
- PFA Team of the Year: 2014–15 Premier League
- PFA Fans’ Player of the Year: 2015
- Facebook FA Premier League Player of the Year: 2015
- UEFA Champions League top assist provider: 2015–16
- Copa América Golden Ball: 2016
- Copa América Team of the Tournament: 2016
River Plate:
- Argentine Primera División: 2008 Clausura
Barcelona:
- La Liga: 2012–13
- Copa del Rey: 2011–12
- Supercopa de España x 2: 2011, 2013
- UEFA Super Cup: 2011
- FIFA Club World Cup: 2011
Arsenal:
- FA Cup x 2: 2014–15, 2016–17
- FA Community Shield: 2014
Inter Milan:
- Serie A: 2020–21
- Coppa Italia: 2021–22
- Supercoppa Italiana: 2021
Chile:
- Copa América x 2: 2015, 2016
5. Pedro
Pedro wore the number 17 jersey for:
- FC Barcelona
- Chelsea FC
Pedro was a mainstay of the great Barcelona team under Pep Guardiola. He wore the number 17 for four years, from 2009 to 2013.
Pedro’s ability to score crucial goals in high-stakes matches played a pivotal role in Barcelona’s successes, including their historic treble-winning season in 2008-2009.
His goal in the final of 2010-11 Champions League against Manchester United was also crucial in winning that game.
Chelsea could use a Wembley special from Pedro 🔥#FACupFinalpic.twitter.com/IBEOab0y9E
— GOAL (@goal) August 1, 2020
Pedro’s contributions extended beyond goal-scoring. His relentless pressing and willingness to track back to aid the defense helped his teams a lot.
After a highly successful tenure at Barcelona, Pedro transferred to Chelsea. He took the number 17 shirt again at his new club.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 674 |
| Goals | 175 |
| Assists | 108 |
Honors
Embed from Getty ImagesIndividual Honors:
- La Liga’s Breakthrough Player: 2009–10
- UEFA Europa League Squad of the Season: 2018–19
Barcelona:
- La Liga x 5: 2008–09, 2009–10, 2010–11, 2012–13, 2014–15
- Copa del Rey x 3: 2008–09, 2011–12, 2014–15
- Supercopa de España x 4: 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013
- UEFA Champions League x 3: 2008–09 2010–11, 2014–15
- UEFA Super Cup x 3: 2009, 2011, 2015
- FIFA Club World Cup x 2: 2009, 2011
Chelsea:
- Premier League: 2016–17
- FA Cup: 2017–18
- UEFA Europa League: 2018–19
Spain:
- FIFA World Cup: 2010
- UEFA European Championship: 2012
6. Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo wore the number 17 jersey for:
- Portugal
What can we say about Ronaldo that’s not already been said? He’s one of the greatest soccer players to ever live. Ronaldo has built his brand around the number 7 shirt. But his days playing as a number 17 for Portugal was not short of iconic.
For the first 4 years of his international career, Ronaldo had to play with the number 17 shirt because Figo had the number 7 for Portugal at the time.
During this period, Ronaldo played a pivotal role in Portugal’s journey to the UEFA Euro 2004 Final. His fearless approach on the field and his knack for thriving under pressure became defining characteristics of his early international career.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 973 |
| Goals | 721 |
| Assists | 230 |
Honors
Embed from Getty ImagesIndividual Honors:
- FIFA Ballon d’Or/Ballon d’Or x 5: 2008, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017
- FIFA World Player of the Year: 2008
- The Best FIFA Men’s Player x 2: 2016, 2017
- UEFA Men’s Player of the Year Award x 4: 2007–08, 2013–14, 2015–16, 2016–17
- UEFA Champions League top scorer x 7: 2007–08, 2012–13, 2013–14, 2014–15, 2015–16, 2016–17, 2017–18
- European Golden Shoe x 4: 2007–08, 2010–11, 2013–14, 2014–15
- FIFA Club World Cup Golden Ball: 2016
- FIFA Puskás Award: 2009
- UEFA European Championship Golden Boot: 2020
- Premier League Player of the Season x 2: 2006–07, 2007–08
- La Liga Best Player: 2013–14
- Serie A Footballer of the Year x 2: 2019, 2020
- Premier League Golden Boot: 2007–08
Manchester United:
- Premier League x 3: 2006–07, 2007–08, 2008–09
- FA Cup: 2003–04
- Football League Cup x 2: 2005–06, 2008–09
- FA Community Shield: 2007
- UEFA Champions League: 2007–08
- FIFA Club World Cup: 2008
Real Madrid:
- La Liga x 2: 2011–12, 2016–17
- Copa del Rey x 2: 2010–11, 2013–14
- Supercopa de España x 2: 2012, 2017
- UEFA Champions League x 4: 2013–14, 2015–16, 2016–17, 2017–18
- UEFA Super Cup x 2: 2014, 2017
- FIFA Club World Cup x 3: 2014, 2016, 2017
Juventus:
- Serie A x 2: 2018–19, 2019–20
- Coppa Italia: 2020–21
- Supercoppa Italiana x 2: 2018, 2020
Al Nassr:
- Arab Club Champions Cup: 2023
Portugal:
- UEFA European Championship: 2016
- UEFA Nations League: 2018–19
7. David Trézéguet
David Trézéguet wore the number 17 jersey for:
- Juventus FC
- Hércules CF
- CA River Plate
- CA Newell’s Old Boys
- FC Pune City
- France
David Trezeguet wearing the number 17 shirt and scoring goals is a stuff of legends for Juventus fans. Arriving in 2000 from AS Monaco, Trezeguet quickly formed a deadly partnership with Alessandro Del Piero.
Embed from Getty ImagesTheir understanding on the field and ability to complement each other’s strengths led to countless goals for the club.
He continued wearing the number 17 jersey for most of his career after leaving Juventus.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 555 |
| Goals | 273 |
| Assists | 43 |
Honors
Individual Honors:
- UEFA Team of the Year: 2001
- Serie A Footballer of the Year: 2001–02
- Serie A Top Goalscorer: 2001–02
- Juventus Greatest XI of All Time: 2017
Monaco:
- Ligue 1 x 2: 1996–97, 1999–2000
- Trophée des Champions: 1997
Juventus:
- Serie A: 2001–02, 2002–03
- Serie B: 2006–07
- Supercoppa Italiana: 2003
River Plate:
- Primera B Nacional: 2011–12
France:
- FIFA World Cup: 1998
- UEFA European Championship: 2000
8. Emmanuel Petit
Emmanuel Petit wore the number 17 jersey for:
- Arsenal FC
- FC Barcelona
- Chelsea FC
- France
Emmanuel Petit started wearing number 17 shirt after arriving at Arsenal in 1997, and never looked back.
His role in Arsenal’s historic Premier League and FA Cup double in the 1997-1998 season is etched in the club’s history.
Though his stint at Barcelona was relatively short, Petit left an impression of a skillful and intelligent midfielder. Petit’s journey continued with Chelsea, where he brought his wealth of experience and tactical astuteness.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 521 |
| Goals | 20 |
| Assists | 44 |
Honors
Embed from Getty ImagesIndividual Honors:
- PFA Premier League Team of the Year: 1998–99
Monaco:
- Ligue 1: 1996–97
- Coupe de France: 1990–91
Arsenal:
- Premier League: 1997–98
- FA Cup: 1997–98
- FA Charity Shield x 2: 1998, 1999
France:
- FIFA World Cup: 1998
- UEFA European Championship: 2000
9. Pierre Emerick Aubameyang
Pierre Emerick Aubameyang wore the number 17 jersey for:
- Borussia Dortmund
- FC Barcelona
Aubameyang joined Dortmund in 2013 and wore the number 17 jersey throughout his time at the club.
He was brought in to replace the void left by a certain Lewandowski, and Aubameyang did not disappoint. His exceptional speed and clinical finishing elevated the team’s offensive capabilities.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 638 |
| Goals | 318 |
| Assists | 94 |
Honors
Individual Honors:
- UNFP Ligue 1 Team of the Year: 2012–13
- Borussia Dortmund Player of the Season: 2014–15
- Bundesliga Team of the Season: 2016–17
- African Footballer of the Year: 2015
- Bundesliga Player of the Year: 2015–16
- Bundesliga top scorer: 2016–17
- Premier League Golden Boot: 2018–19
- Arsenal Player of the Season Award: 2019–20
Saint-Étienne:
- Coupe de la Ligue: 2012–13
Borussia Dortmund:
- DFB-Pokal: 2016–17
- DFL-Supercup x 2: 2013, 2014
Arsenal:
- FA Cup: 2019–20
- FA Community Shield: 2020
Barcelona:
- La Liga: 2022–23
10. Mark van Bommel
Van Bommel wore the number 17 jersey for:
- FC Barcelona
- Bayern Munich
Mark van Bommel started wearing the number 17 jersey during his short stint at Barcelona. But it was at Bayern Munich where he truly shined and made the number 17 his own.
His combative style and exceptional reading of the game made him an integral part of Bayern’s midfield. Van Bommel’s leadership qualities were instrumental in guiding Bayern to domestic success, including several Bundesliga titles during his time with the club.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 667 |
| Goals | 91 |
| Assists | 93 |
Honors
Embed from Getty ImagesIndividual Honors:
- FIFA World Cup All-Star Team: 2010
- Dutch Football Talent of the Year: 1999
- Dutch Footballer of the Year x 2: 2001, 2005
- Dutch Football Golden Boot: 2005
PSV Eindhoven:
- Eredivisie x 4: 1999–2000, 2000–01, 2002–03, 2004–05
- KNVB Cup: 2004–05
- Johan Cruyff Shield x 4: 2000, 2001, 2003, 2012
Barcelona:
- La Liga: 2005–06
- Supercopa de España: 2005
- UEFA Champions League: 2005–06
Bayern Munich:
- Bundesliga x 2: 2007–08, 2009–10
- DFB-Pokal x 2: 2007–08, 2009–10
AC Milan:
- Serie A: 2010–11
- Supercoppa Italiana: 2011
11. Ruud van Nistelrooy
Ruud Van Nistelrooy wore the number 17 jersey for:
Embed from Getty ImagesRuud van Nistelrooy was one of the most prolific goal scorers in soccer. At Real Madrid he had to take the number 17 shirt because his preferred number 9 and number 10 shirts were worn by Ronaldo (Brazilian) and Robinho respectively.
Arriving in 2006, he seamlessly integrated into Real Madrid’s attacking force. Van Nistelrooy’s ability to find the back of the net with precision and consistency made him a formidable presence in the penalty area.
Van Nistelrooy’s impact on Real Madrid’s attacking prowess and his legacy in the number 17 shirt remain integral chapters in the club’s illustrious history.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 523 |
| Goals | 331 |
| Assists | 76 |
Honors
Embed from Getty ImagesIndividual Honors:
- Dutch Footballer of the Year x 2: 1998–99, 1999–2000
- Eredivisie top goalscorer x 2: 1998–99, 1999–2000
- Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year x 2: 2001–02, 2002–03
- UEFA Champions League top goalscorer x 3: 2001–02, 2002–03, 2004–05
- UEFA Champions League top assist provider: 2001–02
- PFA Fans’ Player of the Year: 2001–02
- PFA Players’ Player of the Year: 2001–02
- Premier League Player of the Season: 2002–03
- Premier League Golden Boot: 2002–03
- UEFA Club Forward of the Year: 2002–03
- Pichichi Trophy: 2006–07
PSV:
- Eredivisie x 2: 1999–2000, 2000–01
- Johan Cruyff Shield: 1998
Manchester United:
- Premier League: 2002–03
- FA Cup: 2003–04
- Football League Cup: 2005–06
- FA Community Shield: 2003
Real Madrid:
- La Liga x 2: 2006–07, 2007–08
- Supercopa de España: 2008
12. Álvaro Arbeloa
Álvaro Arbeloa wore the number 17 jersey for:
- Deportivo de La Coruña
- Liverpool FC
- Real Madrid
- Spain
Number 17 is not just reserved for attacking players, as Alvaro Arbeloa proved.
Arbeloa made his mark in the footballing world through his tenacity and defensive prowess.
His journey in professional soccer began at Real Madrid’s youth academy, La Fabrica. His dedication and skill earned him a move to Liverpool. Here he would start getting known for his skills and his number 17.
After 3 years he would go back to Real Madrid, and continue wearing his number 17 shirt. Arbeloa’s defensive capabilities and tactical awareness made him a vital asset for the team. His ability to shut down opposing attacks and provide defensive stability was instrumental in Real Madrid’s successes.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 373 |
| Goals | 8 |
| Assists | 21 |
Honors
Embed from Getty ImagesReal Madrid:
- La Liga: 2011–12
- Copa del Rey x 2: 2010–11, 2013–14
- Supercopa de España: 2012
- UEFA Champions League x 2: 2013–14, 2015–16
- FIFA Club World Cup: 2014
- UEFA Super Cup: 2014
Spain:
- FIFA World Cup: 2010
- UEFA European Championship x 2: 2008, 2012
13. Jérôme Boateng
Jérôme Boateng wore the number 17 jersey for:
- Hamburger SV
- Manchester City
- Bayern Munich
- Olympique Lyon
- Germany
Jerome Boateng has etched his name in soccer history through his commanding presence in defense. Beginning his professional career with Hertha BSC, Boateng quickly gained recognition for his exceptional defensive abilities.
Boateng’s journey took a significant turn when he joined Bayern Munich in 2011, donning the revered number 17 shirt. This number became synonymous with his defensive prowess and leadership on the field.
Embed from Getty ImagesHe was also a crucial figure in Germany’s victorious 2014 FIFA World Cup campaign.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 588 |
| Goals | 16 |
| Assists | 36 |
Honors
Individual Honors:
- Bundesliga Team of the Season x 2: 2014–15, 2015–16
- kicker Defender of the Year x 2: 2014–15, 2015–16
- UEFA European Championship Team of the Tournament: 2016
- Germany Footballer of the year: 2015–16
Manchester City:
- FA Cup: 2010–11
Bayern Munich:
- Bundesliga x 9: 2012–13, 2013–14, 2014–15, 2015–16, 2016–17, 2017–18, 2018–19, 2019–20, 2020–21
- DFB-Pokal x 5: 2012–13, 2013–14, 2015–16, 2018–19, 2019–20
- DFL-Supercup x 2: 2012, 2020
- UEFA Champions League x 2: 2012–13, 2019–20
- UEFA Super Cup x 2: 2013, 2020
- FIFA Club World Cup x 2: 2013, 2020
Germany:
- FIFA World Cup: 2014
14. Ciro Immobile
Ciro Immobile wore the number 17 jersey for:
- Delfino Pescara 1936
- Genoa CFC
- SS Lazio
- Italy
Ciro Immobile, wearing his number 17 jersey, has had a big impact on Lazio. His consistency in front of goal and ability to lead the attack has further established his reputation as one of Italy’s premier strikers.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 553 |
| Goals | 319 |
| Assists | 73 |
Honors
Individual Honors:
- Serie B Footballer of the Year: 2012
- Capocannoniere (Serie A top scorer) x 4: 2013–14, 2017–18 , 2019–20, 2021–22
- Serie A Team of the Year x 4: 2013–14, 2017–18, 2019–20, 2021–22
- UEFA Europa League top scorer: 2017–18
- European Golden Shoe: 2019–20
- Italian Sportsman of the Year: 2020
Pescara:
- Serie B: 2011–12
Borussia Dortmund:
- DFL-Supercup: 2014
Lazio:
- Coppa Italia: 2018–19
- Supercoppa Italiana x 2: 2017, 2019
Italy:
- UEFA European Championship: 2020
15. Steven Gerrard
Steven Gerrard wore the number 17 jersey for:
- Liverpool FC
Steven Gerrard started his career at Liverpool as a number 17. He later moved to number 8 after the departure of Emile Heskey. Gerrard went on to become a soccer great, winning numerous individual and team honors.
Embed from Getty ImagesGerrard’s early years at Liverpool were marked by his versatility and boundless energy on the field. His ability to control the midfield, distribute play, and make crucial tackles from a young age had people expecting great things from him.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 749 |
| Goals | 191 |
| Assists | 172 |
Honors
Individual Honors:
- UEFA Club Footballer of the Year: 2005
- PFA Players’ Player of the Year: 2005–06
- PFA Young Player of the Year: 2000–01
- PFA Fans’ Player of the Year x 2: 2000–01, 2008–09
- FWA Footballer of the Year: 2008–09
- FA England Player of the Year Award x 2: 2007, 2012
- Liverpool Player of the Season x 4: 2004, 2006, 2007, 2009
- FIFA FIFPro World XI: 2007, 2008, 2009
- UEFA Team of the Year: 2005, 2006, 2007
- Most assists in the Premier League: 2013–14
- Premier League Hall of Fame: 2021
Liverpool:
- FA Cup x 2: 2000–01, 2005–06
- Football League Cup x 3: 2000–01, 2002–03, 2011–12
- FA Community Shield: 2006
- UEFA Champions League: 2004–05
- UEFA Cup: 2000–01
- UEFA Super Cup: 2001
16. Fabio Cannavaro
Fabio Cannavaro wore the number 17 jersey for:
- AC Parma
- Inter Milan
Although Fabio Cannavaro is better known for his number 5 jersey (at Real Madrid and Italy), he wore number 17 for a majority of his career. Cannavaro emerged as a defensive stalwart during his time at Parma and Inter Milan.
His precise tackling, tactical awareness, and leadership on the field marked him as a standout defender in Serie A.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 693 |
| Goals | 18 |
| Assists | 5 |
Honors
Embed from Getty ImagesIndividual Honors:
- 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
17. Mario Mandzukic
Mario Mandzukic wore the number 17 jersey for:
- NK Zagreb
- GNK Dinamo Zagreb
- Juventus FC
- Al-Duhail SC
- Croatia
Mario Mandzukic started his career with the number 17 and stuck with it for the most part. He quickly gained recognition for his exceptional skills on the field while playing for NK Zagreb.
Mandzukic’s journey led him to prominent clubs such as Bayern Munich, Juventus, and Atletico Madrid, where he became in an invaluable asset.
Embed from Getty ImagesHis contributions to the Croatian national team, including a memorable run to the FIFA World Cup Final in 2018, also stand out.
Career Statistics
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 512 |
| Goals | 200 |
| Assists | 85 |
Honors
Individual Honors:
- Prva HNL Player of the Year: 2009
- Sportske novosti Yellow Shirt award: 2008–09
- Croatian Footballer of the Year x 2: 2012, 2013
- UEFA Goal of the Season: 2016–17
Dinamo Zagreb:
- Prva HNL x 3: 2007–08, 2008–09, 2009–10
- Croatian Football Cup x 2: 2007–08, 2008–09
Bayern Munich:
- Bundesliga x 2: 2012–13, 2013–14
- DFB-Pokal x 2: 2012–13, 2013–14
- DFL-Supercup: 2012
- UEFA Champions League: 2012–13
- UEFA Super Cup: 2013
- FIFA Club World Cup: 2013
Atlético Madrid:
- Supercopa de España: 2014
Juventus:
- Serie A x 4: 2015–16, 2016–17, 2017–18, 2018–19
- Coppa Italia x 3: 2015–16, 2016–17, 2017–18
Honorable Mentions
In our quest to identify the top number 17 soccer players, it is essential to acknowledge some honorable mentions. These players did not quite meet our criteria or wore number 17 for a really short period of time.
1. Alexandre Lacazette
Alexandre Lacazette wore the number 17 jersey for Olympique Lyon at the early stages of his career.
2. Bukayo Saka
Bukayo Saka has worn the number 17 jersey for England national team on occasions.
3. Erling Haaland
Erling Haaland wore the number 17 jersey during his first year at Borussia Dortmund.
4. Raúl
Raúl wore the number 17 jersey in Real Madrid during the 1995/96 season.
Conclusion: Top Soccer Players Who Have Worn Number 17 Jersey
In conclusion, we’ve delved into the remarkable journeys of these outstanding number 17 soccer players. From Steven Gerrard’s leadership at Liverpool to Fabio Cannavaro’s defensive prowess at Parma, each player left an indelible mark on the beautiful game.
The finite nature of this list could meant that only a select few made it. If you think I’ve missed anyone, then do let me know in the comments below.
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