The greatest number 7s in football history

October 27, 2025 Kris Isaksen

Wearing the number 7 shirt is more than just a squad number — it's a symbol of flair, charisma, and footballing greatness. From midfield dynamos to iconic wingers and ruthless forwards, these 15 players left an unforgettable mark on the game while donning the legendary number. Here’s a countdown from 15 to 1 of the greatest number 7s to ever play.

15. N’Golo Kante – the tireless engine

Kante joined Leicester City in 2015 and played a crucial role in their miraculous Premier League title win under Claudio Ranieri. After moving to Chelsea, he added the Champions League, Premier League, Europa League, and FA Cup to his trophy haul, while also starring in France’s 2018 World Cup triumph.

14. David Villa – Spain’s all-time top scorer

David Villa built his reputation in Spain with Valencia before achieving European glory with Barcelona. A pivotal player in Spain’s golden generation, he helped secure the Euro 2008 and World Cup 2010 titles with his lethal finishing and ambidextrous shooting ability.

13. Franck Ribery – the Bayern Munich magician

Franck Ribéry — daykung / Shutterstock.com

After bouncing between clubs early in his career, Ribery found his home at Bayern Munich in 2007. Alongside Arjen Robben, he formed the legendary “Robbery” duo, winning nine Bundesliga titles and a Champions League, becoming one of the club’s all-time greats.

12. Kevin Keegan – mighty mouse of Merseyside and Hamburg

Keegan’s career began modestly at Scunthorpe, but he rose to stardom with Liverpool, winning multiple league titles and a European Cup. He became a cult hero at Hamburg, where he won two Ballon d'Ors and led the club to a European Cup final.

11. Andriy Shevchenko – Ukraine’s greatest ever

Shevchenko reached his peak at AC Milan, where he won the Ballon d’Or and guided the team to Champions League and Serie A glory. Though his Chelsea stint didn’t match previous heights, his legacy as a powerful, intelligent forward remains untouched.

10. Jairzinho – the hurricane of Brazil

Filling Garrincha’s shoes was no easy task, but Jairzinho did it in style, starring at the 1970 World Cup. He scored in every round of the tournament, including the final, as Brazil captured the title in one of football’s most iconic squads.

9. Robert Pires – the stylish invincible

Pires joined Arsenal as Marc Overmars' replacement and eventually became a cornerstone of the 'Invincibles' team. Known for his creativity and goal-scoring, he was instrumental in Arsenal's unbeaten 2003/04 Premier League season.

8. David Beckham – bending history

A global icon and set-piece specialist, Beckham rose to fame with Manchester United before starring for Real Madrid and LA Galaxy. His technical ability and leadership made him a key figure for England, where he served as captain for six years.

7. Sir Kenny Dalglish – king of Anfield

After winning everything with Celtic, Dalglish became a Liverpool legend, winning league titles and European Cups as both player and manager. Revered in Scotland and on Merseyside, he remains one of the game’s most respected figures.

6. Raul – Mr. Real Madrid

Raul epitomised Real Madrid’s values with his 16-year senior career at the club, winning three Champions Leagues and six La Liga titles. A natural leader and brilliant finisher, he seamlessly adapted his game with age and remains a symbol of loyalty and intelligence.

5. Luis Figo – the controversial genius

Figo caused uproar with his record-breaking move from Barcelona to Real Madrid, but his performances justified the drama. A Ballon d'Or winner, he dazzled with his dribbling and control, later reinventing himself in midfield with Inter Milan.

4. Eric Cantona – United’s talisman

Cantona transformed Manchester United in the 1990s with his unique blend of creativity, confidence, and leadership. Known for his charisma as much as his skill, “King Eric” inspired a new era of dominance at Old Trafford.

3. George Best – football’s first superstar

Best was a phenomenon on and off the pitch, combining dazzling footwork with raw pace and a fearless style. Though his career was affected by his personal life, his talent remains legendary, particularly for his time at Manchester United.

2. Garrincha – the joyful genius

Born with physical limitations, Garrincha overcame the odds to become one of Brazil’s most beloved icons. A 1962 World Cup winner and master of flair, his legacy lives on as one of the most naturally gifted wingers in football history.

1. Cristiano Ronaldo – the ultimate number 7

Cristiano Ronaldo Al Nassr — Maciej Rogowski Photo / Shutterstock.com

With five Ballon d’Ors, countless titles, and more goals than anyone else in history, Ronaldo has redefined what’s possible. From Manchester United to Real Madrid, Juventus, and now in Saudi Arabia, he continues to inspire a generation and set records with no signs of slowing down.