Red is more than a colour in football. It represents passion, power, identity and tradition. Across eras and continents, some of the most iconic teams and players in history have worn red on the biggest stages. This XI pays tribute to legendary footballers who became synonymous with the red shirt and left an unforgettable mark on the game.
The Red XI
GK: David Seaman (England)
A commanding presence for the Three Lions. Seaman was calm, reliable and known for his remarkable reflex saves in a classic red England keeper kit.
RB: Cafu (Roma)
A flying full back who defined the modern role. Cafu’s trademark surging runs in Roma’s deep red kit became one of Serie A’s most recognisable sights.
CB: Franz Beckenbauer (Bayern Munich)
The Kaiser. A pioneer of the sweeper role and a symbol of Bayern’s dominance in Europe. His elegance and leadership stand unmatched.
CB: Franco Baresi (AC Milan)
The beating heart of one of the greatest defences ever assembled. Baresi embodied Milan’s discipline and class during its most successful eras.
LB: Denis Irwin (Manchester United)
Consistency personified. Irwin defended intelligently, delivered precision from set pieces and was a vital member of United’s success in the 1990s.
DM: Xavi (Spain)
A midfield metronome. Xavi orchestrated Spain’s historic era of dominance, dictating play while wearing the iconic red of La Roja.
CM: Steven Gerrard (Liverpool)
A leader. A scorer of great goals. And the soul of Liverpool for more than a decade. Gerrard’s passion in the red shirt inspired millions.
CM: Pavel Nedved (Czech Republic)
A workhorse with world class ability. Nedved carried his nation on the biggest stages, showcasing creativity, power and tireless energy.
AM: Michael Laudrup (Denmark)
Graceful, intelligent and effortless. Laudrup’s performances for Denmark blended vision and technique in one of international football’s most stylish red kits.
ST: Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
A global icon. Ronaldo delivered record-breaking performances for Portugal while wearing the famous red. Power, athleticism and big game brilliance.
ST: Thierry Henry (Arsenal)
The face of Arsenal’s invincible era. Henry’s swagger, speed and precision made him one of the greatest to ever wear a red shirt in English football.
Why Red Matters
Red is passion.
Red is history.
Red is dominance.
From Bayern’s European triumphs to Liverpool’s famous nights, from Invincible Arsenal to Portugal’s international success, the colour red has been forged into football folklore.