The 15 Greatest Players Ever to Wear No. 7 – Ranked from Lowest to Highest

March 26, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

One of the most iconic shirt numbers in football history, the No. 7 jersey has been worn by some of the game’s greatest legends. From dazzling wingers to clutch goalscorers and charismatic leaders, these players have defined eras and inspired generations.

We’ve taken a closer look at the most legendary players ever to wear the No. 7 shirt—ranking them based on their achievements, influence, and the lasting legacy they left on the sport.

15. N’Golo Kanté

N'Golo Kante — Photo: ph.FAB / Shutterstock.com

Known for his tireless engine and humble presence, N’Golo Kanté has quietly built one of football’s most decorated careers. A World Cup winner and Champions League champion, he wore the No. 7 shirt with class and consistency.

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14. David Villa

Spain’s all-time top scorer for many years, David Villa brought the No. 7 shirt to life with his sharp finishing and intelligent movement. He won everything from the World Cup to the Champions League in a brilliant career.

13. Franck Ribéry

Dynamic, skillful, and relentless, Ribéry was a driving force behind Bayern Munich’s dominance in the 2010s. With the No. 7 on his back, he claimed nine Bundesliga titles and a Champions League trophy.

12. Kevin Keegan

A two-time Ballon d’Or winner, Kevin Keegan shone both in England and Germany. Wearing No. 7, he led Liverpool and Hamburg to league titles and stood out with his energy, creativity, and leadership.

11. Andriy Shevchenko

One of Europe’s deadliest strikers in his prime, Shevchenko’s No. 7 jersey symbolized elegance and precision. He captured the Ballon d’Or and scored over 300 goals across a glittering club and international career.

10. Jairzinho

The Brazilian winger famously scored in every match of the 1970 World Cup—an unmatched feat. With the No. 7 on his back, Jairzinho became a symbol of flair and power in one of the greatest teams ever.

9. Robert Pirès

A creative force for France and Arsenal, Pirès was a key figure in the legendary “Invincibles” season. Wearing No. 7, he added a World Cup, a European Championship, and multiple Premier League titles to his name.

8. David Beckham

One of the most iconic players to ever wear No. 7, Beckham’s pinpoint crosses and free kicks defined an era. From Manchester United to Real Madrid and PSG, he left a global legacy on and off the pitch.

7. Sir Kenny Dalglish

A Liverpool and Celtic legend, Dalglish combined vision, goals, and leadership wearing the No. 7 jersey. He lifted three European Cups and remains one of the most beloved figures in British football history.

6. Raúl

The face of Real Madrid for over a decade, Raúl embodied the spirit of the No. 7 shirt. He scored nearly 400 career goals and won three Champions League titles, becoming a club and Spain legend.

5. Luís Figo

A master technician with a fierce competitive edge, Figo wore No. 7 with elegance and fire. His Ballon d’Or win and stints at both Barcelona and Real Madrid speak volumes of his world-class talent.

4. Eric Cantona

With his collar up and charisma on full display, Cantona gave the No. 7 shirt at Manchester United its modern-day mystique. A natural leader and match-winner, he laid the foundation for United’s dominance in the ’90s.

3. George Best

Nederland tegen Noord Ierland ; George Best , kop *13 oktober 1976

A true genius with the ball, George Best made the No. 7 iconic at Manchester United long before the Premier League era. His dribbling, flair, and lifestyle made him a cultural phenomenon as much as a football legend.

2. Garrincha

One of Brazil’s greatest ever, Garrincha dazzled fans with his magical dribbling and joyful playing style. Wearing No. 7, he was instrumental in Brazil’s World Cup wins in 1958 and 1962.

1. Cristiano Ronaldo

No player has elevated the No. 7 shirt more than Cristiano Ronaldo. With over 1,000 appearances, five Ballon d’Ors, and countless records, he turned the number into a global brand and set a standard for greatness.