Thursday, 23 Jan 2025
Sport

The Legends of the Number 22 Jersey in Football

Jersey numbers hold a special significance for many football players. For some, their number represents more than just a position on the field. It becomes a part of their identity, a symbol of their career and achievements. One such iconic number is the number 22, which has been worn by some of the greatest players in the game. Let’s take a closer look at the legends who have donned the number 22 jersey and the impact they have made.

Alexi Lalas

Alexi Lalas

  • Club: Calcio Padova
  • Years: 1994-1996
  • Appearances: 44
  • Goals/Assists: 2/0
  • Trophies: None

Alexi Lalas, the former American defender, was the first player from his country to grace the Italian Serie A. He wore the number 22 jersey during his second season at Calcio Padova before returning to the United States to play in Major League Soccer. Lalas made a total of 96 appearances for the US national team, scoring 10 goals.

Alvaro Morata

Alvaro Morata

  • Club: Atletico Madrid
  • Year: 2018
  • Appearances: 68
  • Goals/Assists: 25/6
  • Trophies: None

Alvaro Morata, the Spanish international striker, is another notable player who has worn the number 22 jersey. He chose this number during his first season at Atletico Madrid while on loan from Chelsea. Morata has had a successful career, scoring a total of 184 goals and providing 76 assists in 503 club games. He has also represented Spain, scoring 26 goals in 56 appearances.

Angel Di Maria

Angel Di Maria

  • Clubs: Juventus (2022 – present), Real Madrid (2010 – 2015)
  • Years: 5
  • Appearances: 194
  • Goals/Assists: 37/86
  • Trophies: 6

Angel Di Maria, the talented Argentine winger, has made a name for himself wearing the number 22 jersey. He wore it during his five seasons at Real Madrid and currently dons it at Juventus. Di Maria has had a successful career, winning numerous trophies with both clubs and earning a place in the FIFA FIFPro World XI. He has also represented Argentina, scoring 25 goals in 122 appearances.

Antonio Rudiger

Antonio Rudiger

  • Club: Real Madrid
  • Year: 2022
  • Appearances: 8
  • Goals/Assists: 1/0
  • Trophies: 1

Antonio Rudiger, the German international center-back, recently moved to Real Madrid and chose to wear the number 22 jersey. He has already made an impact, winning the UEFA Super Cup with Los Blancos. Rudiger has had a successful career, winning a total of six trophies and playing 53 games for Germany.

Arturo Vidal

Arturo Vidal

  • Club: Juventus (2011 – 2012), Barcelona (2018 – 2020), Inter Milan (2020 – 2022)
  • Years: 5
  • Appearances: 202
  • Goals/Assists: 22/22
  • Trophies: 7

Arturo Vidal, the Chilean midfielder, has played in the number 22 jersey for several clubs throughout his career. He achieved great success at Juventus, Barcelona, and Inter Milan, winning numerous trophies along the way. Vidal is known for his versatility and has scored 113 goals and provided 83 assists in 673 club appearances. He has also represented Chile, scoring 32 goals in 133 games and winning two Copa America titles.

These are just a few of the legendary players who have worn the number 22 jersey throughout their careers. Each has left a lasting impact on the game and has proven that the number on their back can become a symbol of their success. Whether it’s Lalas defending the colors of Calcio Padova, Di Maria dazzling fans with his skills at Real Madrid, or Vidal dominating midfield for Juventus, these players have shown that greatness can be achieved wearing the number 22.

FAQs

Q: How many players have worn the number 22 jersey?
A: Many players have worn the number 22 jersey throughout football history, each leaving their own mark on the game.

Q: Who is the most successful player to wear the number 22 jersey?
A: It’s difficult to determine the most successful player, as success can be measured in different ways. However, players like Angel Di Maria and Arturo Vidal have won multiple trophies and achieved great success in their careers.

Q: Are there any current players wearing the number 22 jersey?
A: Yes, players like Alexi Lalas, Alvaro Morata, and Antonio Rudiger are currently wearing the number 22 jersey for their respective clubs.

Conclusion

The number 22 jersey holds a special place in football history, as it has been worn by some of the game’s greatest players. From Alexi Lalas and Alvaro Morata to Angel Di Maria and Arturo Vidal, these players have left an indelible mark on the game while wearing the number 22. Their achievements and impact serve as a reminder of the significance of jersey numbers in football and how they can become symbols of greatness.