In the world of soccer, the number on a player’s back can sometimes become as emblematic as his performance on the pitch. Among these numbers, the number 3 is often associated with legendary defenders and all-rounders who have left an indelible mark on the history of the sport. This article highlights soccer players wearing the number 3, whose influence extends far beyond their defensive position, contributing to memorable moments and historic victories.
1. Sergio Reguilón
Sergio Reguilón, renowned for his versatility and dynamism on the left flank, embraced the number 3 jersey during his spells with Real Madrid Castilla, Tottenham, and Atlético Madrid. His ability to contribute in both defense and attack earned him a place of choice in these prestigious teams. His current loan spell at Brentford, albeit with a change of number, testifies to his adaptability and constant commitment on the pitch.
Also wearing number 3 with the Spanish national team during the 2020/2021 season, Reguilón has demonstrated his talent at the international level, contributing to his team’s defensive solidity. His constantly evolving career illustrates his importance to every team he has played for, confirming his status as a complete and competitive defender.
2. Éder Militão
Since joining Porto in 2018, Éder Militão has shown remarkable defensive versatility, which earned him a transfer to Real Madrid, where he continues to wear the number 3 shirt proudly. His presence on the pitch is synonymous with robustness and tactical intelligence, key elements that have contributed to his team’s success in both La Liga and the Champions League. At Real Madrid, his ability to adapt and excel in several defensive roles confirms his status as a central pillar of the defense.
His talent also shone on the international stage, where he played a key role in Brazil’s conquest of the Copa America. Wearing the number 3 shirt, Militão demonstrated his exceptional level of play, contributing to the team’s defensive solidity throughout the tournament. The victory not only celebrated his performance but also affirmed his importance to the Brazilian national team. His trajectory, marked by success for both club and country, makes him a model of the modern central defender.
3. Gleison Bremer
Wearing the number 3 jersey at Juventus, Gleison Bremer proved to be a major defensive acquisition. His physical presence and positional sense have strengthened the team’s back line. What’s more, since his arrival, he has helped his club aim for the top of Italian soccer, although he is still in search of major rewards with Juventus.
4. Presnel Kimpembe
Presnel Kimpembe, a true pillar of the Paris Saint-Germain and France teams, embodies the quintessential No. 3 through his commitment, defensive strength, and leadership. At PSG, his role has been central to the club’s multiple Ligue 1 titles, where his reassuring presence and decisive interventions make him a defender you can count on. His ability to organize the defense and initiate play from the back is a major asset for his club.
Internationally, Kimpembe has made a significant contribution to the success of the French national team, winning two major titles that have marked his career: the FIFA World Cup in 2018 and the UEFA Nations League in 2021. These victories illustrate not only his quality as a central defender but also his importance at major tournaments. Proudly representing his country and wearing the number 3 shirt, Kimpembe demonstrates match after match why he is considered one of the best in his position, fortifying his legacy both at club and international level.
5. Fabinho
Fabinho, who donned the number 3 shirt at Liverpool from 2018 to 2023, has distinguished himself as one of the world’s most skilled and versatile defensive midfielders. His contribution to the English team has been decisive, enabling him to play a key role in the club’s successes, notably in the Premier League and Champions League. His ability to win the ball back, coupled with his vision of the game, has made him an essential part of the Reds’ midfield.
Recently transferred to Al-Ittihad Club, Fabinho has adopted the number 8 shirt, starting a new chapter in his career with ambition and determination. Although the change of number marks a new stage, Fabinho’s impact and influence on the pitch remain undeniable. His time at Liverpool, playing as number 3 will be remembered as the period when he consolidated his status as a world-class player.
6. Ruben Dias
Rúben Dias, wearing the number 3 shirt since his arrival at Manchester City, quickly established himself as a central figure in their defense. His impact was immediate, playing a decisive role in the club’s Premier League conquest and historic Champions League success. Gifted with defensive robustness, a keen sense of organization, and a reassuring presence, Dias became essential to City, strengthening their rearguard and motivating his teammates towards success.
On the international stage, Dias also contributed to Portugal’s victory in the UEFA Nations League, highlighting his ability to perform at the highest level. Wearing the number 3 shirt, he embodies commitment, leadership, and defensive excellence, affirming his role as a pillar on which his club and national team can rely.
7. Gerard Piqué
Gerard Piqué, synonymous with the number 3 shirt, has left an indelible mark both with FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team. His highly successful career has seen him win countless trophies, including the Champions League with Barcelona and the FIFA World Cup with Spain. Piqué stands out for his intelligence, his ability to read opponents’ play, and his calmness under pressure, qualities that have established him as one of the best defenders of his generation.
In addition to his achievements on the pitch, Piqué has also been a figure of leadership, both for Barça and the national team. His association with the number 3 has become emblematic, symbolizing his reliability, his elegance in defense, and his offensive contribution. Even after his retirement, Piqué’s legacy continues to inspire future defenders, testifying to the remarkable impact of his career.
8. Kieran Tierney
Kieran Tierney, initially acquired by Arsenal, where he has shone as a left-back since the 2019/2020 season, has shown remarkable adaptability and defensive rigor. His performances for the Gunners, wearing the number 3 shirt, have illustrated his ability to contribute in both defense and attack, making him a key player in the team. Currently on loan at Real Sociedad wearing number 17, Tierney continues to display his commitment and talent, bringing defensive solidity and energy to the flank.
His impact is not limited to his contributions at club level, as he also plays an important role in the Scottish national team. Tierney, with his dynamic style of play and versatility, remains a valuable asset, capable of infusing his team with energy and creativity. His career, marked by the number 3 shirt at Arsenal, remains emblematic of his constant contribution and determination on the pitch.
9. Thiago Silva
Thiago Silva, the emblem of the Brazilian defense and figurehead of every team he has represented, embodies leadership and experience. With Brazil, he wore the number 3, a number that has come to symbolize his invaluable contribution to the Seleção, most notably in the Copa America victory. His honors list extends far beyond that, including such memorable triumphs as the Champions League with Chelsea, an achievement that crowns an already outstanding career.
At club level, Silva has also left an indelible mark on Paris Saint-Germain, where his defensive impact and leadership have been crucial to the club’s multiple Ligue 1 titles. His ability to direct the defense, combined with his aerial play and clean delivery, make him a model for central defenders. His time with the Blues and his decisive role in their European success underline his constant pursuit of excellence and victory, affirming his status as a soccer legend.
10. Kalidou Koulibaly
At the heart of the defense, Kalidou Koulibaly has distinguished himself by his robustness and tactical intelligence, both with Napoli and more recently with Al-Hilal SFC, where he continues to wear the number 3 shirt. His impact on the pitch has been significant, contributing to the defensive solidity of his teams. With Napoli, Koulibaly played a key role in helping the club win the Italian Cup, a testament to his influence and commitment.
In the national team, his leadership and exceptional performances were essential to Senegal’s triumph at the African Cup of Nations. The embodiment of fighting spirit and determination, Koulibaly led his team to victory, making his mark on the history of Senegalese soccer. His career, enriched by successes for club and country, underlines Koulibaly’s stature as a world-class central defender, respected for his contribution both nationally and internationally.
11. Paolo Maldini
Soccer legend Paolo Maldini wore the number 3 shirt with distinction throughout his AC Milan career. His name is synonymous with loyalty and defensive excellence, having won numerous titles, including the Champions League on several occasions. Maldini embodies elegance and efficiency on the pitch, leaving an indelible legacy in soccer history.
12. Pepe
Pepe, whose name resonates with strength and commitment, has left his mark on soccer pitches, first with Real Madrid, then with FC Porto, and not forgetting the Portuguese national team. Wearing the number 3 shirt, he symbolizes tenacity and defensive skill, having made a significant contribution to the success of every team he played for. His years at Madrid were distinguished by Champions League victories, testifying to his impact at decisive moments.
His influence continues at FC Porto, where his experience and leadership have been essential in winning domestic titles, confirming his status as an iconic figure at the club. In the national team, Pepe has been a pillar of the Portuguese defense, contributing to their historic victory at Euro 2016 and the Nations League in 2019. These triumphs, far from being just numbers, reflect Pepe’s importance as a renowned central defender, capable of inspiring his teammates and making soccer history.
13. Ashley Cole
Ashley Cole, one of the best left-backs of his generation, wore the number 3 shirt at Chelsea, where he won numerous titles, including the Champions League. His speed, tactical intelligence, and ability to stop opposing forwards made him a key part of the team. Cole is an example of perseverance and professionalism.
14. Roberto Carlos
An emblematic figure in Brazilian soccer, Roberto Carlos has left an indelible mark on the history of the sport thanks to his speed, power, and ability to score memorable goals from his position as a defender. Although he wore different numbers throughout his career, his time with Real Madrid and the Brazilian national team remains particularly memorable. At Madrid, Roberto Carlos was a key member of the team that dominated Europe and Spain in the late 1990s and early 2000s, winning several La Liga and Champions League titles.
His contribution to Brazil’s national team was equally significant, culminating in victory at the FIFA World Cup in 2002. Roberto Carlos was known for his ability to run along the touchline, outpacing opponents with consummate ease and delivering precise crosses, as well as for his skill at taking free-kicks, often described as guided missile strikes. His legacy goes far beyond trophies and goals; he redefined the role of the left-back, inspiring generations of defenders to play more offensively.
15. Patrice Evra
Patrice Evra, with the number 3 shirt, has been a mainstay of Manchester United, contributing to the era of success under Sir Alex Ferguson. His passion, energy, and leadership on and off the pitch were crucial to the Red Devils, helping them win multiple Premier League titles and the Champions League. His determination and hard work are exemplary.
