The world of soccer is full of exceptional talents, each bringing their unique touch to the pitch. Among them, some players stand out for their technique and skill and the number they proudly wear. The number 20, in particular, has been worn by athletes whose impact on the game remains undeniable.
This article highlights eleven of these talents who shone under this number, illustrating how they contributed to the success of their respective clubs and national teams.
1. Bernardo Silva – Manchester City & Portugal
With his impeccable technique, Bernardo Silva has made a name for himself with Manchester City and the Portuguese national team. Proudly wearing the number 20 shirt, he has played a key role in numerous victories, contributing to many prestigious titles, including the Premier League and English League Cup. His contribution is not limited to his performances on the pitch; he is also renowned for his vision and ability to create chances.
2. Vinicius Junior – Real Madrid & Brazil
Vinicius Junior, Real Madrid’s rising star, embodies youth and dynamism. Wearing the number 20 shirt, he quickly proved his worth, becoming an indispensable part of the team. His outstanding performances have helped Real Madrid win La Liga and the Champions League, testifying to his talent and importance to the club. His speed and technique have also earned him international recognition, promising a career rich in success.
3. Sergi Roberto – FC Barcelona & Spain
Sergi Roberto, FC Barcelona’s Swiss Army knife, shone with his versatility. Wearing the number 20 shirt, he was equally at home in midfield and defense and played an active role in helping the club win numerous trophies. His ability to adapt to different positions on the pitch demonstrates not only his technique but also his commitment and game intelligence. Moreover, his experience and leadership are recognized nationally and internationally.
4. Diogo Jota – Liverpool FC & Portugal
Diogo Jota quickly established himself as a major asset for Liverpool, thanks to his agility and efficiency in front of goal. The number 20 suits him well, symbolizing his decisive contributions that have led the team to important victories, notably in the Premier League and Champions League. His constant progress and outstanding performances have made him a key player for both his club and the Portuguese national team.
5. Diogo Dalot – Manchester United & Portugal
Manchester United defender Diogo Dalot showed his talent and determination. Wearing the number 20 shirt, he proved to be an essential part of the Manchester United defense, contributing to the team’s stability and solidity. His ability to take part in the attack, as well as his defensive rigor, were crucial in key moments. What’s more, his youth and potential augur well for the future, both for club and country.
6. Hakan Çalhanoğlu – Inter Milan & Turkey
Proudly wearing the number 20 shirt for Inter Milan, Hakan Çalhanoğlu has established himself as a master of set-pieces. His precision and vision contribute greatly to his team’s success, including in Serie A and European competitions. His above-average technique enables him to create significant goal-scoring opportunities, reinforcing his status as an indispensable player.
7. Denis Zakaria – AS Monaco & Switzerland
Having worn the number 20 shirt at Chelsea, Denis Zakaria continues to shine at AS Monaco. A defensive midfielder by nature, he excels in ball recovery and rapid transitions, playing a key role in his team’s balance and performance. His presence on the pitch is synonymous with security for his teammates, demonstrating once again his strategic importance within the Monaco set-up.
8. Fraser Forster – Tottenham Hotspur & England
Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Fraser Forster stands out for his reflex saves and serenity under pressure. Wearing the number 20 shirt, he has earned his team’s trust, contributing to numerous clean sheets and solid defensive performances. His experience and imposing stature make him a formidable last line of defense, essential in his club’s quest for success.
9. Kingsley Coman – Bayern Munich & France
Kingsley Coman, Bayern Munich’s talented winger, also shines in the colors of the French national team, where he wears the number 20 shirt. With the Bavarian club, his impressive list of achievements includes several Bundesliga titles, the German Cup, and the prestigious Champions League. His contribution to these achievements is undeniable, thanks to his speed, technique, and ability to make a difference in crucial moments.
Representing France, Coman continues to illustrate his strategic importance, contributing to the team’s attacking dynamic. Although his record with the national team is different, his participation in major competitions such as the Euro and World Cup testifies to his level of excellence and adaptability. The combination of his club and national team successes makes him one of the most decorated players of his generation, perfectly symbolizing the alliance between individual talent and collective success.
10. Dani Carvajal – Real Madrid & Spain
Real Madrid defensive stalwart Dani Carvajal excels both at club level and with the Spanish national team, where he wears the number 20 shirt. His Real Madrid career has been marked by success, including several La Liga and King’s Cup titles, as well as multiple Champions League triumphs. His defensive contribution, combined with his ability to take part in the attack, has been essential to these successes, making him an indispensable part of the Madrid team.
By donning the Spain jersey, Carvajal continues to demonstrate his value and commitment. His participation in major international tournaments, such as the World Cup and the Euro, underlines his importance to La Roja. Although his success with the national team has been more muted than with Real Madrid, his contribution has not gone unnoticed. Carvajal’s solid defending and attacking bursts contribute greatly to Spain’s game strategy, proving that his impact on the game extends beyond the confines of his club.
11. Dani Olmo
Dani Olmo, the talented attacking midfielder, recently joined FC Barcelona from RasenBallsport Leipzig. This eagerly-awaited transfer saw Olmo take the number 20 jersey in the Catalan team. It didn’t take long for him to make a name for himself, as in his very first match under his new colors on August 27, 2024, he scored a goal, spectacularly announcing his arrival on the Spanish scene.
His transition to FC Barcelona coincides with a high point in his international career, having contributed to Spain’s triumph at Euro 2024. This European success, coupled with his impressive start with Barcelona, positions Olmo as a key player to watch this season, bringing with him a dynamism and vision for the game that could prove decisive for his new club.
