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Numbers on the soccer jersey of the player show positions: 1 (Goalkeeper), 2-5 (Defenders), 6 (Defensive Midfielder), and 7-11 (Forwards/Midfielders). Numbers can also show the personal identity of each player.
Have you ever noticed how some of soccer players are well-known just because of their jersey numbers?
Try to Think about Cristiano Ronaldo that have the number 7 or Lionel Messi that has the number 10. These numbers are not just digits of numbers on a shirt. These numbers have meaning winning history and the love of millions of fans.
Soccer Jersey Numbers History
The use of player numbers started in the 1920s because that was difficult for referees, spectators, and commentators to recognize each player on the ground. The first numbered jerseys were seen in 1928 during an English League game between Arsenal and Sheffield Wednesday.
Jersey Numbers in Soccer For Players
In the 1930s it was common thing for teams to assign numbers according to the positions of players. After some time specific numbers are assigned to each role in the ground.
Benefits of Jersey Numbers in Soccer
Some numbers in the soccer have a deep impact on the game and they are the sign of greatness. For example the number 7 represents creativity and winning because of players like George Best, David Beckham, and Cristiano Ronaldo. The number 10 is another great number that was worn by big legends like Pelé, Diego Maradona, and Lionel Messi. These numbers have the legacy so that every new player wants to take the shirts of these numbers.
Jersey Numbers and Player Positions
Numbers were also given based on the position of player in the ground:
- 1: Goalkeeper
- 2-5: Defenders
- 6-8: Midfielders
- 9-11: ForwardsÂ
This numbering system made this thing very easy to identify the roles of players in the ground. Like the number 9 was worn by the main striker of the team and the number 7 was given to an attacking midfielder.
Modern Trend
Now the connection between numbers and positions has finished or changed. Players now have the freedom to choose any number in the teams. This shift shows the new soccer management and the new identity of the game by players.
Famous Soccer Jersey Numbers
- Number 7: The number 7 jersey has been worn by some of the greatest players in soccer history. This number pays tribute to legends like George Best, Eric Cantona, and Cristiano Ronaldo.
- Number 10: The number 10 has been worn by some of the greatest players including Pelé, Diego Maradona, and Lionel Messi.
- Number 9: The number 9 Shows the most goal scorer of the team. This number has been worn by Ronaldo Nazário, Alan Shearer, and Robert Lewandowski.
Other Great Numbers
The numbers 7, 9, and 10 are the greatest numbers in soccer but other numbers are also popular. The number 1 is known for goalkeepers like Lev Yashin, the numbers 3 and 4 are worn by defenders like Poalo. The number 8, is worn by midfielders like Xavi.
How Jersey Numbers Are Chosen?
The process of choosing jersey numbers depends on the team and league. Some clubs have strict rules for assigning the numbers based on position or performance but many other clubs allow players to choose their numbers.
Conclusion
Numbers on the Soccer jersey are more than just to identify the players in the ground. These numbers are a sign of identity. Now you know from the traditional numbering system to the modern trends each number has a specific meaning. Whether it's the greatest number 10 worn by legends, it is the personal choice of a player.