The number 11 has become one of the most iconic jersey numbers, largely due to the many legendary soccer players who have worn it throughout history. From gifted wingers to creative forwards, number 11 has consistently been associated with skill, flair, and excellence. In this article, Win Betting Tips will delve into the 8 famous number 11 soccer players who have graced the field.
1, Ryan Giggs
The player who made the number 11 shirt legendary was Ryan Giggs. The Welshman spent his entire career at Manchester United, playing 802 matches for the club and scoring 168 goals. Giggs’ career spanned over two decades, with the winger delivering countless unforgettable performances. Known for his pace, dribbling ability, and extraordinary vision, Giggs was instrumental in United’s dominance during the Premier League era.
Giggs won 13 Premier League titles, 4 FA Cups, and 2 UEFA Champions League titles during his illustrious career. His longevity, combined with his consistently high-level performances, solidified his status as one of the best number 11 players in football history. The former winger’s career came to an end in 2014, but his influence on the sport remains strong to this day.
2. Gareth Frank Bale
Gareth Frank Bale, a Welsh footballer currently playing for Los Angeles FC in Major League Soccer, has had a remarkable career that spans multiple countries and prestigious clubs. Having started his career as a left-back at Southampton, Bale quickly established himself as a talented free-kick specialist. During his early years, he wore several numbers, including the number 3, typically assigned to left-backs. However, it wasn’t until 2012, while playing for Tottenham Hotspur, that he made a significant change—not just in his jersey number but in his position on the field. Switching to the number 11 shirt, Bale was moved upfield to the right wing, where he could fully showcase his ability to cut inside and unleash powerful shots with his left foot.
That season marked a turning point in his career, as he was named the Premier League’s best player, and his stellar performances helped Tottenham secure a substantial fee when Real Madrid came calling in 2013. At Madrid, Bale inherited the iconic number 11 shirt, joining a star-studded attacking trio alongside Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo, collectively known as BBC. This formidable trio played a pivotal role in Real Madrid’s dominance, with Bale quickly establishing himself as one of the most important players in the squad. It was at Madrid that Bale solidified his legacy as the greatest British footballer to ever play the game, further enhancing his reputation with a series of remarkable performances.
3. George Best
One of the most legendary figures to ever wear the number 11 shirt is George Best. Widely regarded as one of the greatest dribblers in football history, the Northern Irishman played for Manchester United from 1963 to 1974. Best’s dazzling skills, precise ball control, and ability to score stunning goals made him a fan favorite and a global superstar.
During his career, George Best won numerous titles with Manchester United, including the 1968 European Cup. His accolades, including the Ballon d'Or in 1968, cemented his place as one of the finest players of his generation. Best’s off-field lifestyle, marked by controversies and his struggles with alcohol, often overshadowed his brilliance on the pitch, but his footballing talents are undeniable. He remains a true icon for number 11 players around the world.
4. Robin van Persie
Robin van Persie is a former Dutch striker who enjoyed a distinguished 18-year career, playing for clubs such as the Netherlands, Arsenal, Manchester United, Feyenoord, and Fenerbahçe. Renowned for his clinical finishing ability, particularly his knack for scoring first-time goals, van Persie is widely regarded as one of the best finishers of his generation.
At Arsenal, van Persie wore the number 11 jersey for five consecutive years, cementing his legacy as one of the club's iconic players. His time at Arsenal saw him become the third-highest goalscorer in the club’s history, with a total of 132 goals while wearing the number 11 shirt, before later donning the number 10 jersey. Outside of his time at Arsenal, van Persie only wore the number 11 again during his stint at Fenerbahçe in 2015.
5. Mohamed Salah
Mohamed Salah Hamed Mahrous Ghaly, more commonly known as Mohamed Salah or simply Mo Salah, is an Egyptian footballer who currently plays for Liverpool, wearing the number 11 jersey. Nicknamed the "Egyptian King" by his fans, Salah is renowned for his extraordinary ability to navigate through tight spaces and find angles to shoot. In his five seasons at Liverpool, he surpassed another African football legend who also wore the number 11, becoming the highest-scoring African player in Premier League history.
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Salah first wore the number 11 shirt in 2015 when he joined AS Roma in Italy's Serie A. The change in number marked a significant improvement in his performances, as he quickly established himself as one of the most exciting wingers in Italy. After just two years at Roma, Salah made the move to Liverpool in 2017, retaining the number 11 jersey that had brought him so much success.
6. Neymar Jr.
Neymar Jr. is one of the most famous modern-day number 11 players. The Brazilian forward is renowned for his creativity, dribbling skills, and flair on the field. Neymar began his professional career at Santos FC in Brazil, where his dazzling performances caught the attention of European giants. In 2013, Neymar made a high-profile move to Barcelona, where he formed a deadly attacking trio with Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez.
Neymar’s move to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in 2017 for a record-breaking transfer fee further solidified his place among the greats. With multiple Ligue 1 titles, a UEFA Champions League title, and numerous individual awards, Neymar has proven his ability to perform on the biggest stages. He continues to be one of the most marketable and recognizable footballers worldwide, wearing the number 11 shirt with pride.
7. Marco Reus
Marco Reus is a Bundesliga star widely regarded as a one-club man, having remained loyal to Borussia Dortmund for many years despite receiving offers from larger clubs. Born on May 31, 1989, in Dortmund, Germany, Reus has been a key figure in the success of his club, even though his career has been hindered by some injuries.
Before making his mark at Borussia Dortmund, Reus played for several teams, including PTSV Dortmund Youth, Dortmund Youth, RW Ahlen, Rot Weiss Ahlen, and Borussia Mönchengladbach. Throughout his career, Reus has scored 228 goals and provided 152 assists in 575 appearances, establishing himself as one of the most influential players in German football. His loyalty to Dortmund and his consistent performances have made him an iconic figure in the club's history.
8. Son Heung-min
Son Heung-min, the South Korean forward, has been one of the most consistent performers in the Premier League since joining Tottenham Hotspur in 2015. Wearing the number 11 shirt, Son has developed into one of the most lethal attackers in Europe, known for his blistering pace, clinical finishing, and work ethic.
Son’s ability to play as both a winger and a forward has made him a versatile player in the Tottenham attack and his partnership with Harry Kane has been a key factor in the club’s successes in recent years. He is also a national hero in South Korea, having led the country to victory in the 2018 AFC Asian Cup. Son’s contributions to the Premier League and his continued excellence on the pitch make him one of the most prominent modern number 11 players.
In conclusion
The number 11 shirt has been worn by some of the most famous and talented footballers in history. The legacy of these famous number 11 soccer players will continue to inspire future generations, and their contributions to the beautiful game are etched in the memories of football fans around the world. Whether they were known for their creative brilliance, explosive pace, or clinical finishing, these players have left an indelible mark on the sport. The number 11 will always remain one of the most iconic numbers in football, and the players who have worn it are remembered as some of the greatest to ever grace the pitch.
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