The choice of jersey number is often a reflection of a player’s identity and aspirations on the pitch. This article highlights some exceptional footballers who, at some point in their careers, chose the number 30, a choice which, far from being insignificant, symbolizes their unique career path and their indelible contribution to the sport.
From Lionel Messi to Nicolas Otamendi, each player has left his mark not only on the history of his club but also on that of international soccer, through performances that resonate far beyond the numbers.
1. Lionel Messi – Club Internacional de Fútbol Miami & Argentina
Considered one of the greatest footballers of all time, Lionel Messi shone for FC Barcelona and PSG before joining Club Internacional de Fútbol Miami. Wearing the legendary number 10 shirt at his current club, his career has been marked by success, with an impressive list of honors. Messi also wore the number 30 on his debut for FC Barcelona in 2005/06 and on his switch to PSG in 2021/22, making his mark on every team he has played for. His collection of trophies, including several Ballon d’Or awards, testifies to his exceptional talent and influence on the pitch.
2. Thiago Alcântara – Liverpool FC & Spain
Thiago Alcântara, an exceptionally technically gifted midfielder, began his professional career with FC Barcelona, where he wore the number 30 shirt in 2010/11. Now at Liverpool FC, his career has been marked by success at both club and international level with Spain. His ability to direct play and connect defense to attack has been crucial to every team he has represented. His contribution has been rewarded with several titles, demonstrating the importance of his role within his teams.
3. David Luiz – Clube de Regatas do Flamengo & Brazil
David Luiz, known for his versatility in defense, currently plays for Clube de Regatas do Flamengo, sporting the number 23. Before returning to Brazil, he left an indelible mark in Europe, most notably with Chelsea, where he wore the number 30 from 2016 to 2019. His career is punctuated by significant victories, including the Champions League with Chelsea. His presence on the pitch is synonymous with security for his team, demonstrating his strategic importance in defense.
4. Luca Toni – Retired & Italy
Luca Toni, the feared center-forward, enjoyed an illustrious career, playing for clubs such as Fiorentina and AS Roma, where he wore the number 30 shirt. His time at Vicenza Calcio in 2000/01 was also memorable. Retired from the field, Toni leaves behind a legacy of exceptional goalscoring, having made a significant contribution to his teams’ successes. His performances have been recognized with numerous trophies, underlining his decisive contribution at every stage of his career.
5. Nicolas Otamendi – SL Benfica & Argentina
Nicolas Otamendi, a central defender by trade, currently plays for SL Benfica. His career has seen him wear the number 30 shirt on several occasions, notably with CA Vélez Sarsfield and FC Porto, before shining with Manchester City and finally Benfica since 2020/21. Renowned for his defensive robustness, Otamendi has played a key role in his team’s collective success, winning several national and international titles. His determination and commitment on the pitch make him a mainstay of his current team.
6. Aritz Aduriz – Retired & Spain
At the heart of the attack, Aritz Aduriz has distinguished himself by his efficiency in front of goal, notably with Athletic Bilbao, where he wore the number 30 shirt in 2002/03. His ability to finish off the ball has made him a key member of his team. Moreover, his career, rich in spectacular goals, was punctuated by numerous titles that attest to his importance on the pitch. Now retired, his legacy lives on, inspiring future generations of strikers.
7. Gavi – FC Barcelona & Spain
Gavi first came to prominence with FC Barcelona, starting with the number 30 before adopting the number 6, reflecting his rapid ascent within the team. With his impressive vision and maturity, he has become an essential midfielder. What’s more, his contribution is not limited to his decisive passes; his ability to recover the ball and initiate play makes him a complete player. His precocious talent suggests a bright future, bringing success to both his club and the national team.
8. Eddie Nketiah – Arsenal FC & England
Eddie Nketiah, a promising Arsenal talent, wore the number 30 before moving on to the number 14, marking his growing importance within the team. His agility and goalscoring instincts made him a standout performer from the outset. On top of that, his regular performances in front of goal testify to his potential to become one of the leading figures in Arsenal’s attack. Nketiah continues to hone his skills, ready to take on future challenges and add to his trophy cabinet.
9. Junior Messias – Genoa CFC & Brazil
Arriving in Italy with an atypical career path, Junior Messias proved his worth at FC Crotone and then AC Milan, where he wore the number 30 shirt, before joining Genoa CFC, where he now wears the number 10. His trajectory is a veritable fairytale, illustrating his determination and talent. Additionally, his attacking versatility has been a major asset to his teams, enabling him to adapt and excel in a variety of roles on the pitch. His ability to reinvent himself and contribute effectively to the collective effort makes him a role model for many.
10. Mohamed Daramy – Stade de Reims & Denmark
Mohamed Daramy began his European career with Ajax Amsterdam, where he wore the number 30 jersey. Today, he continues to make a name for himself at Stade de Reims, wearing the number 9 jersey. This fast, technical winger has established himself as a constant threat to opposing defenses. That said, his steady progress since his professional debut suggests a promising future. His ability to outwit defenses and score important goals is an invaluable asset to his current team and could propel him to new heights in his career.
11. Jeremie Frimpong – Bayer Leverkusen & Netherlands
Jeremie Frimpong has risen rapidly from his early days at Celtic Glasgow, where he wore the number 30 shirt, to become a key member of Bayer Leverkusen’s defense. His ability to adapt quickly to new situations and his ability to make powerful runs up the right flank have made him a player to watch. What’s more, his commitment and speed make him a formidable opponent in both defense and attack. Frimpong continues to develop his game, promising a career rich in challenge and success.
As we traveled through the exploits of these talented players who have chosen the number 30, we came across stories of determination, success, and inspiration. Each player has left a lasting imprint in the hearts of fans and on pitches the world over. If you know of other players who have worn this iconic number, please share their stories with us. Your contributions will enrich our celebration of the talent and passion that drive soccer.
