Some shirt numbers become iconic because of superstardom and history. Others become iconic because of the personalities and talent who wore them. The number 26 may not have the glamour of 7, 9 or 10, but it has been worn by leaders, creators, match winners and cult heroes across Europe’s biggest leagues.
This XI celebrates the best of them.
Goalkeeper: Sven Ulreich, Bayern Munich
Ulreich stepped up when Bayern needed him most. Reliable, composed and trusted, he proved that even elite clubs need dependable squad players who can handle pressure on the biggest stage.
Right Back: Łukasz Piszczek, Borussia Dortmund, Zaglebie Lubin, Hertha and KS Goczałkowice-Zdrój
A relentless runner and defensive rock. Piszczek became a key figure in Dortmund’s golden era, lifting Bundesliga titles, reaching a Champions League final and redefining the modern full back role.
Centre Back: Kalidou Koulibaly, Napoli
At Napoli, Koulibaly became one of the most respected defenders in Europe. Commanding, intelligent and powerful, he turned the number 26 into a symbol of resilience and leadership.
Centre Back: John Terry, Chelsea and Aston Villa
Few shirt numbers are as synonymous with a player as 26 is with John Terry. A Premier League icon and Chelsea’s greatest captain, he set the standard for leadership, bravery and defensive excellence.
Left Back: Andrew Robertson, Hull City and Liverpool
Robertson wore 26 during his rise from Hull to Champions League and Premier League glory. His work rate, delivery and tenacity helped redefine the expectations of a full back in the modern era.
Central Midfield: Charlie Adam, Blackpool and Liverpool
Adam’s range of passing and long range shooting made him a standout for Blackpool and earned him a move to Liverpool. His eye for spectacular goals and set piece mastery made the 26 shirt memorable.
Central Midfield: Edgar Davids, Juventus
Davids brought power, aggression and elite ball winning to the number 26. One of the most recognisable figures in world football across the 90s and early 2000s, he embodied intensity in midfield.
Right Wing: Riyad Mahrez, Leicester City and Manchester City
Mahrez wore 26 during his journey from Premier League underdog at Leicester to champion and Champions League winner at City. Creative, unpredictable and graceful, he turned the shirt into a symbol of flair.
Attacking Midfielder: Shinji Kagawa, Manchester United
Kagawa brought imagination and clever movement to the number 26 at United. While his spell was brief, his technical elegance and football IQ made him a respected creative presence.
Left Wing: Savinho, Manchester City
Savinho is one of the most exciting young forwards wearing the number today. Quick, inventive and fearless, he represents the new generation. His trademark dribbling and energy have helped elevate City’s attack and given the number 26 fresh modern relevance.
Striker: Cyril Ngonge, Napoli, Hellas Verona and Torino
Ngonge has made the number 26 his own with work rate, direct running and clinical finishing. From Verona to Torino and Napoli, his versatility and confidence in front of goal made him a standout.
A Shirt Number Worth Celebrating
This XI shows that number 26 is more than a squad digit. It has been worn by captains, legends and rising stars across Europe. From Premier League icons to modern wonderkids, this is a shirt number with far more history than people realise.
And with players like Savinho carrying it into a new era, its story is still being written.