Pelé, Maradona, Messi, Ronaldinho, Zidane
The number 10 is football's most sacred shirt. Given to the creator, the playmaker, the genius. Every generation has a 10 who defines it.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Beckham, Cantona, Best, Figo
At Manchester United, 7 is a legacy. From Best to Beckham to Ronaldo, it carries weight. At Real Madrid, Raúl made it iconic.
Ronaldo (R9), Lewandowski, Suárez, Van Basten, Shearer
The striker's number. R9 defined it in the late 90s. Shearer owned it in England. The 9 scores goals — that's the only requirement.
Beckenbauer, Zidane, Puyol, Cannavaro
In football, the 5 is the leader. Beckenbauer reinvented the position. Puyol embodied it. The captain's number in many traditions.