A player wearing the number 5 jersey is usually found in defensive positions on the field. His or her presence influences every other player on the field. Players wearing this jersey often embody the ideal captain and leave a lasting legacy in football history. For many, a player's jersey number in football holds great significance. However, assigning the right number to a player is not easy, as it often carries historical or positional significance. The number 5 is traditionally assigned to center-backs, though some defensive midfielders also choose to wear it. Based on that, here are the current Top 10 soccer players with the number 5 from the Wintips website.
Soccer players with the number 5 - Top 10
1. Franz Beckenbauer - Best number 5 in football history
The German legend Franz Beckenbauer is widely regarded as a pioneer in transforming the traditional role of the number 5 in football. His innovative approach to the game revolutionized the role of a center-back, setting a new standard for future generations of defenders. Beckenbauer's exceptional ability to read the game, coupled with his intelligent movement on the field, allowed him to transition seamlessly between defense and attack.
At the heart of his exceptional abilities was his astute leadership from the backline. Franz Beckenbauer had an innate sense of when to push forward to support the attack and when to drop back to reinforce the defense. His composure under pressure and tactical awareness solidified his dominance on the field.
2. Sergio Busquets - One of the soccer players with the number 5
One of the greatest defensive midfielders of all time, Sergio Busquets, has been a key factor in Barcelona's success over the past 13 years. A homegrown talent, Busquets made his debut for Barcelona in 2008 and immediately impressed with his performances. The Spanish international does not rely on remarkable physical strength or speed, but he is an outstanding game strategist and possesses exceptional technical skills.
Busquets has maintained remarkable consistency in his playing career at the highest level for both club and country. The 33-year-old remains a crucial player and currently serves as the captain of Barcelona after Lionel Messi left the club. Busquets is also a key figure for the Spanish national team, having won the FIFA World Cup and the UEFA European Championship.
3. Marquinhos - Among the best number 5 soccer players
Marquinhos, one of the world's outstanding defenders, captains Paris Saint-Germain and is a regular starter for the French club. However, any skepticism disappeared when Paris Saint-Germain signed Marquinhos in 2013 for £28.3 million.
Nevertheless, the 29-year-old player has established himself as one of the best defenders in the world, known for his confidence and defensive intelligence. Marquinhos can also operate as a defensive midfielder and has excelled in this role in recent years. The Brazilian international has consistently delivered strong performances.
See today's Premium soccer tips here: Soccer Tips Today.
4. Cannavaro
As Italy's defensive cornerstone, Fabio Cannavaro guided his team to the pinnacle of European and world football. Despite his diminutive stature, he stood out as one of the finest players on the pitch, thanks to his exceptional athleticism and physical strength. Cannavaro was versatile, capable of playing in multiple defensive roles and providing swift support with his ball-winning abilities.
Cannavaro's influence went beyond his defensive responsibilities; he played a key role in initiating attacks from the back. His ability to distribute the ball effectively and organize the team's shape from deep positions proved crucial to Italy's success.
5. Jorginho - One of the best soccer players with the number 5
Many consider Jorginho one of the most outstanding players, if not the best, in the world based on his performances last season. There have been many debates on this topic, but Jorginho's impact on Chelsea's Champions League triumph in 2020-21 and Italy's success at Euro 2020 cannot be denied.
Jorginho plays a crucial role for both club and country, dictating play from midfield with his exceptional passing ability. As a 30-year-old midfielder who rarely scores goals, Jorginho has received limited backing for the Ballon d'Or. Even after his move to Arsenal, Jorginho remains a beloved figure among Chelsea fans.
6. Rio Ferdinand - One of the soccer players with the number 5
During their primes, Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidić formed one of the most formidable center-back partnerships in European football, striking fear into opposing attackers and earning admiration from fans worldwide. Their synergy on the field was unmatched, as they complemented each other's strengths and compensated for weaknesses.
Rio Ferdinand, with his imposing physique, was a dominant force in defense. Blessed with exceptional athleticism and strength, he could outmuscle opponents and dominate aerial duels. However, Ferdinand's exceptional positional sense and tactical intelligence truly set him apart.
7. Carles Puyol
Barcelona and Spain boast some of the finest number 5s in history, with players like Carles Puyol ranking among legends like Cannavaro. Puyol, primarily a central defender, exhibited remarkable versatility on the field, adept at intercepting passes and thwarting opponents' quick counterattacks.
Puyol's defensive prowess was undeniable; he often made crucial tackles and interceptions to break up opposition attacks. With his physicality and impeccable timing in challenges, he posed a formidable challenge for opposing forwards. Additionally, Puyol's leadership qualities were crucial for organizing Barcelona's defense and marshaling Spain's backline during their dominant era.
8. Zinédine Zidane - One of the soccer players with the number 5
The French legend, Zinedine Zidane, is an exceptional example of a player who redefined the number 5 role in football. Although he was primarily known as an attacking midfielder, Zidane could dribble and dictate play beyond any fixed position on the pitch.
Zidane's dribbling technique is not only outstanding but also a hallmark of sophistication and precision. He can control the ball effortlessly, weaving past opponents with skill and finesse. This highlights that Zidane is not only a technically gifted player but also an artist on the pitch.
9. Pablo Zabaleta - One of the best soccer players with the number 5
Though not always in the spotlight, Zabaleta remained an integral part of Manchester City during his tenure. Though his contributions often went unnoticed, they were crucial to the team's success. One of his most notable attributes was his relentless style of play, particularly evident in his tenacious tackling and ball recoveries.
While Zabaleta may not have possessed flashy skills or the ability to score highlight-reel goals, his work rate and defensive prowess were invaluable to Manchester City's defense. His ability to disrupt opposition attacks and regain possession often went unnoticed, yet it played a crucial role in the team's overall performance.
10. Harry Maguire
Since joining Manchester United from Leicester City in 2019 for £78.3 million— a fee that made him the world's most expensive defender— Harry Maguire has faced criticism. However, Maguire's performances have silenced his critics. Recognized as one of the best ball-playing defenders in the world, the English international has strengthened Manchester United's defense with his physicality and leadership.
Maguire is now the captain of Manchester United. The former Hull City player is known for his remarkable composure on the ball. His outstanding performances at Euro 2020 reinforced his reputation, as both Manchester United and the England national team felt his absence whenever he was not on the pitch.
Conclusion
In classical football, the number 5 was associated with high physical demands due to the football philosophy of that era, which emphasized strength and endurance. In its early days, football lacked the strict rules that exist today. Assigning fixed numbers to players was not a common practice. The number 5 is traditionally assigned to center-backs, although some defensive midfielders have also worn it. We hope the names mentioned on our bookmaker in betting website will satisfy you. Thank you for your interest in this article.
