The mention of the number 15 in soccer immediately brings to mind a gallery of players whose influence goes far beyond this simple number. These talents, who have shone on pitches the world over, have each, in their own way, redefined their position and left an indelible imprint on the hearts of fans.
In this article, we delve into the stories of these exceptional athletes, revealing how they transcended the game and inscribed their names among the legends of the sport.
1. Nemanja Vidić
The emblematic wearer of the number 15 shirt at Manchester United, Nemanja Vidić has established himself as a defensive legend. His career with the Red Devils is marked by multiple trophies, including five Premier League titles and a Champions League. His ability to lead the defense has earned him worldwide recognition, as well as several personal honors, including the title of UEFA Best Defender.
In addition, Vidić also shone on the international stage with Serbia, taking part in major international competitions. Although he has retired, his legacy as an exceptional defender lives on, with an impressive total of over 15 major trophies won during his career.
2. Mats Hummels
A key figure in the defensive line, Mats Hummels wore the number 15 with pride at Borussia Dortmund. His return to the club in 2019 has been hailed as the return of a hero, after a successful period with Bayern Munich where he enriched his trophy cabinet with several Bundelisgas and a German Cup.
On the international stage, however, Hummels has been a mainstay of the German national team, contributing to their triumph at the 2014 World Cup. His vision, interceptions, and ability to score crucial goals have established him as one of the most complete defenders of his generation, accumulating a total of over 20 trophies in his career.
3. Daniel Sturridge
Known for his finesse in front of goal, Daniel Sturridge’s career has been punctuated by some magical moments, most notably when he wore the number 15 for Liverpool. The England striker played a key role in Liverpool’s almost victorious Premier League campaign in the 2013-2014 season, forming a formidable duo with Luis Suárez.
Sturridge also enjoyed success on the international stage with England, although trophies were harder to come by. After leaving Liverpool, he continued to impress at Trabzonspor, before facing challenges off the pitch. Despite these obstacles, his natural talent remains undeniable, with a trophy cabinet that includes the Champions League and an FA Cup.
4. Peter Crouch
Renowned for his impressive height, Peter Crouch has often defied expectations, using his stature to become a feared striker. Wearing the number 15 shirt at Liverpool, he proved his worth by scoring crucial goals and helping the team win the FA Cup in 2006.
His international career with England was equally notable, with Crouch becoming a valuable attacking option in major competitions. Although he retired as a player, having completed his career with Stoke City, his unique style of play and contribution to English soccer continue to be celebrated. His list of honors, including FA Cup and UEFA Supercup wins, testifies to his impact on the pitch.
5. Florent Malouda
At the heart of the attack, Florent Malouda shone on the wings, bringing speed and creativity. His most notable spell in the No.15 shirt came at Chelsea, where he was a key component of the team that won the Premier League and FA Cup double in 2010.
Malouda also made his mark on the international scene with France, taking part in several major tournaments, including the 2006 World Cup final. Although he ended his professional career with Trabzonspor, his legacy lives on, enriched by a total of over 10 trophies, underlining a successful career with both club and country.
6. Ray Parlour
With inexhaustible energy in midfield, Ray Parlour embodied Arsenal’s fighting spirit, particularly when wearing the number 15 shirt. His commitment and consistency for the Gunners saw him contribute to a golden period for the club, marked by three Premier League titles and several FA Cups.
What’s more, although his international career with England was not as prolific in terms of caps, Parlour’s impact on the pitch is measured not only in trophies but also in unforgettable moments. He remains a highly respected figure among Arsenal fans, his eloquent list of achievements reflecting a remarkable career.
7. Andrea Barzagli
Considered one of the most reliable defenders of his generation, Andrea Barzagli wore the number 15 with distinction at Juventus. His defensive robustness was a key factor in Juve’s domination of Serie A, as well as their success in the Coppa Italia and Supercoppa Italiana.
Moreover, his role in Italy’s triumph at the 2006 World Cup cemented his reputation on the international stage. Although he has now retired, his legacy lives on, symbolized by an impressive list of honors that includes eight Serie A titles, underlining an exceptional career with both club and country.
8. Megan Rapinoe
Megan Rapinoe, with her undeniable talent and leadership, wore the number 15 while becoming an icon on and off the field. A key player in the U.S. national team, she led her country to several Women’s World Cup victories, not to mention Olympic success.
In addition, his commitment to equality and social justice has inspired fans around the world. Rapinoe continues to shine with OL Reign in the NWSL, proving that his influence extends far beyond athletic performance. His impressive list of world cups and Olympic medals is a testament to his exceptional career.
9. Sunday Oliseh
At the heart of the pitch, Sunday Oliseh made his mark with his intelligent play and powerful shot. Although he wore the number 15 shirt at Dortmund, it was with the Nigerian national team that he made his mark, taking part in major competitions and contributing to Nigeria’s triumph at the African Cup of Nations in 1994.
That said, his club career, though marked by spells in several countries, remains impressive. Not only has Oliseh won trophies at the club level, but he has also been a key figure in African soccer, symbolizing the talent and impact of African players on the world stage. His career, enriched by successes with both club and country, illustrates a diverse and successful career.
