Soccer players with number 17 have often played pivotal roles in their respective teams, showcasing a blend of skill, determination, and leadership on the field. This jersey number carries its unique legacy, having been worn by players who possess the ability to turn the tide of a game and inspire their teammates.

From dynamic forwards and creative midfielders to solid defenders, the number 17 has been represented across various positions, making its mark in football history. Players who have donned this number have often risen to the occasion, delivering memorable performances and etching their names in the annals of the sport.

Top 10 best soccer players with number 17

These players have transcended the conventional expectations associated with this number, transforming it into a symbol of excellence and reliability. In this exploration of football greatness, we delve into the stories and achievements of some of the best soccer players who have proudly worn the number 17 jersey, examining their impact on the game and their enduring legacy.

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10. Tim Cahill

Tim Cahill, the iconic Australian forward, is synonymous with relentless determination and extraordinary heading ability. Donning the number 17 jersey at Everton and for his national team, Cahill showcased his ability to score stunning goals from a distance, earning him accolades and a spot among the footballers with number 17, who left a significant mark on the sport.

After departing from Everton in 2012, Cahill took his talents to several clubs, including New York Red Bulls, Shanghai Shenhua, Hangzhou Greentown, and Melbourne City. He briefly returned to his old stomping grounds at Millwall before ultimately hanging up his boots at Jamshedpur.

9. Marek Hamšík

Marek Hamšík, the Slovakian maestro, has been a midfield powerhouse for Napoli. There, his flair, vision, and goal-scoring ability were on full display.

Renowned for his leadership and commitment, Hamšík wore the number 17 with pride, guiding his team with precision and dedication. On the international stage, Hamšík played a crucial role in guiding Slovakia to their inaugural FIFA World Cup appearance, wearing the captain’s armband during the 2010 tournament.

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His leadership was instrumental as the team advanced to the round of 16, clinching a memorable win against the then-reigning champions, Italy. Hamšík’s contributions have solidified his status as one of the players with number 17, making him a revered figure in the soccer community.

8. Steve McManaman

Steve McManaman, the English winger with mesmerising dribbling skills and lightning speed, made the number 17 jersey his own at Liverpool and Real Madrid. McManaman was a pivotal figure in his teams, lifting various trophies and dazzling fans with his skill and style.

During his significant nine-year tenure at Liverpool, McManaman secured FA and League Cup victories. He also led the Premier League in assists during the 1995–96 season and earned a spot in the PFA Team of the Year the following season.

After joining Real Madrid, McManaman won two La Liga and UEFA Champions League titles, marking him as the first English player to win the latter with a foreign club and later becoming the first to win it twice. His performances have etched his name among the famous football players with number 17, highlighting his influence on the game.

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7. Emmanuel Petit

Emmanuel Petit, the French midfielder known for his precise passing and impeccable tackling, proudly wore the number 17 jersey for Arsenal and his national team. He also played for Barcelona, Monaco, and Chelsea.

Petit’s tireless work ethic and remarkable ability to control the midfield made him a formidable presence on the field, earning him triumphs in the World Cup, European Championship, and Premier League. His legacy endures as one of the best soccer players with number 17.

6. Giovani dos Santos

Giovani dos Santos, the Mexican forward, has dazzled fans worldwide with his agility, creativity, and goal-scoring prowess. Representing clubs like Barcelona and Tottenham, dos Santos made the number 17 jersey his own, showcasing his ability to change the course of a game single-handedly.

Dos Santos was a member of the Mexico under-17 team that won the 2005 FIFA U-17 World Championship held in Peru. His contributions have earned him a spot among the famous soccer players with number 17.

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5. Alexis Sánchez

Alexis Sánchez, the Chilean forward with lightning speed and remarkable goal-scoring ability, has left an indelible mark on the sport. Donning the number 17 jersey for Barcelona and Arsenal, the South American lifted numerous trophies and captivated fans worldwide.

Alexis Sánchez is often lauded as the greatest Chilean football player of all time. Dubbed “El Niño Maravilla” (The Wonder Child), he is undoubtedly one of the best soccer players with number 17, and his legacy continues to inspire future generations.

4. David Trezeguet

David Trezeguet, the French striker with extraordinary goal-scoring ability, made history wearing the number 17 jersey for Juventus and his national team. Trezeguet scored 138 goals in 245 league appearances for Juventus, making him the fourth-highest goalscorer in the club’s history.

His clutch performances in crucial matches, including his famous Golden Goal in Euro 2000, have secured his place among the famous soccer players with jersey number 17 who have made a significant impact on the sport. Trezeguet scored 34 goals in 71 appearances for the France national team between 1998 and 2008.

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3. Mario Mandžukić

Mario Mandžukić, the Croatian striker known for his aerial prowess and relentless work ethic, proudly wore the number 17 for Bayern Munich and Juventus. He helped Bayern win their first continental treble (Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, Champions League) in his first season and was also the first Croatian to score in a Champions League final.

Mandžukić participated in four major tournaments with his national side: Euro 2012, the 2014 World Cup, Euro 2016, and the 2018 World Cup, reaching the final of the latter tournament, after which he retired from international football. Mario’s ability to score in crucial matches and his unwavering determination have etched his name among the football players with the number 17 who have left a lasting legacy.

2. Luis Nani

Luis Nani, the Portuguese winger celebrated for his electrifying pace and sublime dribbling skills, made a name for himself wearing the number 17 at Manchester United and Sporting Lisbon. His number 17 number was mostly portrayed at Manchester United.

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There, he gained first-team status almost immediately. Later, with the Red Devils, Nani won four English Premier League titles and the 2007–08 UEFA Champions League, along with the 2008 FIFA Club World Cup, two League Cups and three Community Shields.

Nani represented his country at three European Championships, in 2008, 2012 and 2016, as well as in the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Nani’s flair, combined with his ability to score and assist, has solidified his status as one of the soccer players with number 17 who have truly made their mark on the game.

1. Kevin De Bruyne

The Belgium midfielder, Kevin De Bruyne, stands at the pinnacle of our list, embodying the essence of a midfield dynamo for Manchester City, the blue side of Manchester. De Bruyne’s vision, passing precision, and exceptional playmaking abilities have earned him numerous accolades, making him the epitome of soccer players with number 17 who have transcended the sport.

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De Bruyne has won five Premier League titles, five League Cups, two FA Cups, and the UEFA Champions League with Manchester City. He played a crucial part in their historic 100-point season in 2017–18, setting a Premier League record.

In 2019–20, De Bruyne equalled the record for most assists in a Premier League season and was awarded Player of the Season, which he won again in 2021–22. His impact on the game is undeniable, and he continues to inspire as one of the premier league players with number 17.

Wrapping up

The number 17 jersey has been worn by some of the most iconic figures in soccer, each bringing their unique style, flair, and brilliance to the pitch. These players have not only showcased exceptional skills but have also played pivotal roles in their respective teams, creating moments of magic and leaving a legacy that transcends generations.

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