Do goalkeepers have numbers?
James Craig
Published Jan 16, 2026
Goalkeeper numbering
Are soccer goalies always number 0?
Today, goalies have become so synonymous with the squad number, “1”, that the first choice 'keeper in a team is typically referred to as the “number 1”, regardless of the actual number on their back. While no player is required to wear a specific number, certain positions have traditional connections to them.
Why do goalkeepers wear number 16?
Another oft-used GK shirt was 16, presumably because this was a popular choice for 'normal' internationals, where five subs were allowed. Premier League clubs were allowed a substitute goalkeeper in 1992-93, the season before squad numbers.
Why do goalkeepers wear the number 13?
Why do goalkeepers wear number 13? The second-choice goalkeeper may wear number 13 in the traditional system where numbers 12 and above will be utilised by the reserves in the squad, and a goalkeeper may choose number 13.
Why do goalies have the number 1?
It's believed that goalies were given the No. 1 because they were the first player on a rink when looking from the net outward. When a goalie was injured, for instance, the replacement goalie would also wear No. 1.
30 related questions foundWhy are goalies always number 30?
Numbers in the thirties were seen as "safe" for goaltenders, since most numbers below thirty were already spoken for by forwards and defensemen (remember that "high numbers" were essentially-unheard of at this time).
What numbers can goalkeepers be?
Goalkeepers must wear either 1, 13 or 25. When players from the reserve team are selected to play for the first team, they are given squad numbers between 26 and 50.
What does number 11 mean in soccer?
10– Attacking Midfielder/Playmaker. 11– Left Midfielder/Wingers.
Why do French goalkeepers wear 16?
Another oft-used GK shirt was 16, presumably because this was a popular choice for 'normal' internationals, where five subs were allowed. Premier League clubs were allowed a substitute goalkeeper in 1992-93, the season before squad numbers.
What position is number 11 in soccer?
The number 11 is synonymous with a left winger, but there are brilliant players elsewhere on the pitch to wear the number too. In the early days of soccer, your number defined the position you played: number one was a goalkeeper, nine a striker, six a holding midfielder and three a left back.
What is a false 9 in soccer?
A false nine is a centre-forward who repeatedly moves towards the ball in deeper positions from a high starting position, often dropping to receive centrally. The main intention is to get on the ball away from the opposition centre-backs – and, in doing so, to draw players out of position and disrupt the defence.
What is number 9 in soccer?
Number 9 shirt
The No. 9 is usually given to a football team's centre forward or main striker, a prolific goalscorer in any given formation, especially the likes of 4-3-3, 4-2-2 or 4-2-3-1.
What is No 10 role in football?
A 'number 10' is the team's primary playmaker, operating in a free role between the midfield and the forwards. They lead the team's attack using their excellent vision, control and passing range to dictate the play.
Is a goalkeeper a defender?
Goalkeeper is the most defensive position in football. The goalkeeper's main job is to stop the other team from scoring by catching, palming or punching the ball from shots, headers and crosses. Unlike their teammates, goalkeepers typically remain in and around their own penalty area for most of the game.
Who wears number 13 in soccer?
Michael Ballack
Wears the No. 13 for Chelsea and sometimes Germany. Indeed, Ballack has worn the number 13 shirt for every team he has played for, with the exception of Kaiserslautern.
Who is the best number 9 in soccer?
The Greatest Footballers to Wear the Number 9 Shirt
- Alfredo Di Stefano. Source: Wikimedia Commons. ...
- Alan Shearer. Source: Wikimedia Commons. ...
- Robbie Fowler. ...
- Andy Cole. ...
- Filippo Inzaghi. ...
- Bobby Charlton. ...
- The Brazilian Ronaldo. ...
- Johan Cruyff.
What is a number 7 in soccer?
7 - Right Wing
The #7 is known worldwide as an attacking number usually worn by a player with flare. Usually playing out wide, in particular on the right wing. 7 started on the right wing and pretty much stayed there.