The English Premier League is home to some of the world’s best footballers, and with that comes a certain level of prestige and recognition. But what about the players who don’t have the most recognisable shirt numbers?
It’s no secret that some of the most talented players in the Premier League have some of the most bizarre shirt numbers. From Phil Foden’s 47 to Jude Bellingham’s 22, there’s a story behind each of these numbers that many people are only just beginning to realise.
Phil Foden’s 47 is a tribute to his hometown of Stockport, which is located in the North West of England. The number 47 is a reference to the Stockport County Football Club, which is the local team in the area. Foden has been a lifelong fan of the club and has worn the number 47 on his shirt since he was a young boy.
Jude Bellingham’s 22 is a tribute to his late father, who passed away when Bellingham was just 11 years old. His father was a huge fan of the Birmingham City Football Club, and the number 22 was his father’s favourite number. Bellingham has worn the number 22 ever since his father’s passing as a way to honour his memory.
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s 66 is a tribute to his hometown of Liverpool. The number 66 is a reference to the city’s postal code, which is L6. Alexander-Arnold has been a lifelong fan of Liverpool and has worn the number 66 on his shirt since he was a young boy.
Raheem Sterling’s 7 is a tribute to his idol, Cristiano Ronaldo. Ronaldo wore the number 7 shirt for Manchester United and Real Madrid, and Sterling has worn the number 7 ever since he was a young boy.
Mason Mount’s 19 is a tribute to his late grandfather, who passed away when Mount was just 11 years old. His grandfather was a huge fan of the Chelsea Football Club, and the number 19 was his grandfather’s favourite number. Mount has worn the number 19 ever since his grandfather’s passing as a way to honour his memory.
These are just a few examples of the many players in the Premier League who have chosen to wear a shirt number that has a special meaning to them. From Phil Foden’s 47 to Jude Bellingham’s 22, these players are using their shirt numbers to pay tribute to their hometowns, idols, and loved ones. It’s a beautiful way to honour the people and places that have shaped them into the players they are today.
