In football, the number 17 jersey is often a popular choice among players, especially when they move to a new club. Many believe that the number 17 jersey is a combination of the legendary number 7 and number 10 jerseys. Wearing the number 17 on the field, you are like a second number 10, entrusted with leading the team's gameplay. Throughout the history of football, there have been many renowned stars who have donned this jersey. We can mention names like E. Hazard and K. De Bruyne... In the article below, let's join Wintips in reviewing the Top 10 number 17 soccer players bets of the 21st century.
Top 10 best number 17 soccer players in history
1. Kevin De Bruyne
Kevin De Bruyne is widely regarded as one of the most talented midfielders of his generation. He has won four Premier League titles since joining Manchester City in 2015. His ball-playing ability from the midfield is world-class, with exceptional ball control, passing, and the ability to find teammates with accurate crosses and passes.
In terms of attacking, De Bruyne is a frequent goal threat, often scoring from long distances. With 20 assists in the 2020-21 season, he broke the Premier League assist record. On the international stage, De Bruyne is the captain of the Belgium national team and helped them achieve a record number one ranking on the FIFA ranking in 2018.
2. Eden Hazard - Number 17 soccer players
Since switching to Chelsea in the summer of 2012, Eden Hazard has been associated with the number 17 jersey. Along with his affirmed talent, this jersey number has gradually become famous at Stamford Bridge. However, starting from the upcoming season (2014-15), the Belgian midfielder will no longer wear this familiar number.
This information has been confirmed by Chelsea through their official website. Specifically, Eden Hazard will switch to wearing the number 10 jersey, the number left behind by Juan Mata, who transferred to Manchester United in January 2014. In fact, when wearing the number 10 jersey, Hazard truly shone and became a cornerstone of The Blues for several consecutive years.
3. Luis Nani - Number 17 soccer players
From 2007 to 2015, Nani played over 200 matches for Manchester United, helping the team secure 4 Premier League titles and 1 Champions League trophy along with numerous other accolades. Operating from the right wing, this agile winger provided width, flair, and goals, forming a solid understanding with teammates like Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney.
Though Nani had his ups and downs, he showcased admirable performances on the grandest stages and scored crucial goals. Since leaving United, he has enjoyed successful spells with Sporting CP and Valencia in Portugal, as well as representing Orlando City in the MLS. Nani was a pivotal player in the Portuguese national team's triumph at Euro 2016, starting in the final match.
4. Alexis Sánchez
Alexis Sanchez has enjoyed a successful career in top European leagues, most notably with Barcelona, Arsenal, and Manchester United. The Chilean winger/forward is known for his speed, dribbling ability, work rate, and goal-scoring prowess. Sanchez had his most prolific season at Arsenal under Arsene Wenger, topping the goal-scoring charts multiple times and helping the club secure FA Cup victories.
Sanchez has demonstrated perseverance, finesse, and goal-scoring prowess throughout his club career, whether playing on the right flank or as a central forward. Even in his late 30s, he has maintained remarkable fitness levels. Sanchez has been a talisman for Chile during its golden era and is often regarded as one of the greatest players in the nation's history.
5. Mario Mandzukic - Number 17 soccer players
Mario Mandzukic is a towering figure in Croatian football, known for his physicality, aerial prowess, and knack for finding the back of the net. Throughout his career, he has donned the number 17 jersey, both at the international level for Croatia and during his stint at Juventus.
His journey to becoming a footballing icon began with his contributions to the Croatian national team. Mandzukic has been a vital part of the Croatian setup, showcasing his scoring abilities and leadership on numerous occasions. Notably, he played a pivotal role in Croatia's memorable run to the 2018 FIFA World Cup final, where they finished as runners-up, with Mandzukic's goals playing a crucial role in their success.
6. Lucas Vázquez - Number 17 soccer players
Lucas Vazquez, the Spanish footballer known for his versatility and work ethic, has been a consistent presence for Real Madrid over the past six seasons, wearing the number 17 jersey with pride. In addition to his contributions at the club level, Vazquez has also represented Spain on the international stage.
During his time at Real Madrid, Vazquez has enjoyed considerable success, winning two La Liga titles and three Champions League trophies. His ability to perform under pressure and deliver in crucial moments has made him a valuable asset for the team. With 245 appearances for Real Madrid and 26 goals to his name, Vazquez has proven himself to be a reliable performer capable of making significant contributions on both ends of the pitch.
7. David Trezeguet
David Trezeguet has had an extremely successful career in Italy's Serie A, most notably with Juventus. At the club level, the French striker has scored over 200 goals and is renowned for his precise finishing and prowess inside the box. Trezeguet led Juventus to six Serie A titles and one Champions League triumph, forging a deadly partnership with Del Piero.
Starting his career, he also played for Monaco and River Plate in Argentina. Trezeguet scored in both the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000 finals to help France clinch victory in both tournaments. He remains the third-highest goal scorer in the history of French football.
8. Emmanuel Petit - Number 17 soccer players
Former French international Emmanuel Petit wore the number 17 jersey for the national team. Additionally, he sported it at the club level for Barcelona, Arsenal, and Chelsea. Petit scored France's third goal in the 1998 World Cup final, where they won 3 - 0.
He also clinched the European Championship in 2000 at the international level. With Arsenal, he won the Premier League, FA Cup, and FA Charity Shield. His work rate was exceptional, surpassing the rankings, and he was strong in tackling. He possessed the ability to pick out passes, shoot, and score goals.
9. Steve McManaman - Number 17 soccer players
Steve McManaman is a retired English footballer who played for Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Manchester City. Additionally, he represented England at the international level. He wore the number 17 jersey at Liverpool for three seasons.
With Liverpool, he won the FA Cup and the League Cup. He joined Real Madrid in 1999, clinching 2 La Liga titles and 2 Champions League trophies. McManaman played as a midfielder, often on the wings. However, he preferred to play as an attacking midfielder, showcasing creativity.
10. Tim Cahill
Tim Cahill is considered Australia's greatest footballer of all time. With 50 international goals, he is their all-time leading goal scorer. Cahill rose to fame while playing for Everton in the Premier League. During his 7 seasons there, he wore the number 17 jersey.
Cahill is renowned for his unique goal celebrations, often running to the corner flag and boxing it. However, he is also capable of scoring some fantastic goals. Take, for example, his goal and celebration for Australia against the Netherlands in the 2014 World Cup.
Conclude
The number 17 jersey may not receive as much love as the number 10, or even the number 7, but players still have to put in a lot of effort to earn this jersey number. Could it potentially replace the number 10 in the future? Let's wait and see for changes in the future. Above, the trader bookmaker website has compiled a list of the top 10 most outstanding players who have worn the number 17 jersey in history. Hopefully, it will bring you more valuable sports knowledge. Thank you.
See also: The best soccer players with number 6 of the 21st century
