The number 1 shirt is traditionally reserved for goalkeepers, and several legendary goalkeepers have made the number iconic with their outstanding performances. Here are some of the most notable:
1. Lev Yashin: Known as the “Black Spider,” Yashin is widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time. He spent his entire career at Dynamo Moscow and won the Ballon d’Or in 1963, the only goalkeeper to do so.
2. Gianluigi Buffon: An Italian legend, Buffon has had an illustrious career with Parma, Juventus, and the Italy national team. He won the World Cup in 2006 and is known for his incredible shot-stopping and leadership.
3. Dino Zoff: Another legendary Italian goalkeeper, Zoff played for clubs such as Napoli and Juventus. He captained Italy to World Cup victory in 1982 and is known for his remarkable consistency and longevity.
4. Peter Schmeichel: The Danish goalkeeper is best known for his time at Manchester United, where he won numerous titles, including the UEFA Champions League in 1999. Schmeichel was known for his commanding presence and acrobatic saves.
5. Iker Casillas: A Real Madrid and Spain legend, Casillas won numerous titles, including the UEFA Champions League and the World Cup in 2010. He was known for his quick reflexes and leadership on the field.
6. Manuel Neuer: The German goalkeeper has redefined the role with his “sweeper-keeper” style. Neuer has won multiple Bundesliga titles, the UEFA Champions League, and the World Cup in 2014 with Germany.
7. Oliver Kahn: A formidable presence in goal, Kahn played for Bayern Munich and the German national team. He won multiple Bundesliga titles, the Champions League, and was known for his intensity and shot-stopping ability.
8. Gordon Banks: An English legend, Banks is best remembered for his “Save of the Century” against Pelé in the 1970 World Cup. He was a key figure in England’s World Cup-winning team in 1966.
9. Sepp Maier: A German great, Maier spent his entire career at Bayern Munich and won the 1974 World Cup with West Germany. He was known for his agility and consistency.
10. Edwin van der Sar: The Dutch goalkeeper had a successful career with Ajax, Juventus, Fulham, and Manchester United. He won multiple league titles and the Champions League with both Ajax and Manchester United.
These goalkeepers have set high standards in their position, each contributing to their teams’ successes and leaving a lasting legacy in the sport.