Real Madrid’s iconic Number 7 jersey has a rich and storied history that spans several decades. From the legendary Alfredo Di Stefano to the modern-day superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, the Number 7 jersey has been worn by some of the greatest players in the club’s history. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the evolution of Real Madrid’s Number 7 jersey, and the players who have worn it throughout the years.
The Beginning
Real Madrid’s Number 7 jersey was first worn by the legendary Alfredo Di Stefano, who joined the club in 1953. Di Stefano quickly became the star of the team, leading Real Madrid to five consecutive European Cup titles and eight La Liga titles during his time with the club. Di Stefano’s success with Real Madrid cemented the Number 7 jersey as a symbol of excellence and success.
The 1980s
In the 1980s, Real Madrid’s Number 7 jersey was worn by Spanish winger Emilio Butragueño. Butragueño was a key player for Real Madrid during the era known as the Quinta del Buitre (Vulture Squad), which also included players like Michel, Hugo Sanchez, and Rafael Martin Vazquez. Butragueño helped lead Real Madrid to five consecutive La Liga titles from 1986 to 1990, and his success in the Number 7 jersey helped solidify its place in Real Madrid lore.
The Galacticos Era
In the early 2000s, Real Madrid’s Number 7 jersey was worn by Portuguese winger Luis Figo, who joined the club from bitter rivals Barcelona in a controversial transfer. Figo’s time at Real Madrid was marked by success, as he helped the team win two La Liga titles and a Champions League title. Figo’s success in the Number 7 jersey paved the way for other Galacticos like Zinedine Zidane and David Beckham to wear the iconic shirt.
The Ronaldo Era
In 2009, Real Madrid signed Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United, and he was given the Number 9 jersey. However, when Real Madrid legend Raul left the club in 2010, Ronaldo was given the Number 7 jersey, a shirt he would go on to wear for nine seasons. Ronaldo’s success in the Number 7 jersey was unprecedented, as he scored an incredible 450 goals in 438 appearances for the club, helping them win four Champions League titles and two La Liga titles. Ronaldo’s dominance in the Number 7 jersey cemented its place as one of the most iconic shirts in football history.
Conclusion
Real Madrid’s Number 7 jersey has a rich history that spans several decades, and has been worn by some of the greatest players in football history. From Di Stefano to Ronaldo, the Number 7 jersey has become a symbol of excellence and success at Real Madrid. While it remains to be seen who will wear the iconic shirt in the future, one thing is for certain: the legacy of Real Madrid’s Number 7 jersey will continue to inspire players and fans for generations to come.
