At Barcelona, the jersey number 10 holds a special significance- it’s a symbol of genius, responsibility, and legacy. It has been worn by some of the greatest football players in history.
From Argentine legend Maradona’s fire to Brazil’s Ronaldinho’s joy, the number 10 tells a story of eras passed and greatness reborn.
Diego Maradona (1982–1984)
The first of two Argentine magicians to grace Camp Nou, Diego Maradona arrived in 1982 for a world-record £5 million fee from Boca Juniors. Though his Barcelona stint lasted just two seasons, he left an indelible mark. He scored 38 goals in 58 games. He also provided 23 assists.
His major trophies with Barcelona include Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup.
However, his time in Catalonia was marred by injuries and culminated in an infamous all-out brawl against Athletic Club in the 1984 Copa del Rey final — his final game in a Barça shirt. Even so, his time in the #10 shirt was short, volatile, and unforgettable.
Ronaldinho (2003–2008)
When Ronaldinho arrived in 2003, he revived a sleeping giant. Wearing the number 10 with an infectious smile and unmatched flair, he didn’t just play football- he danced with the ball.
He clinched the 2005 Ballon d’Or title and led the club to two La Liga titles and one Champions League trophy. Ronaldinho’s showmanship reignited the club’s spirit and paved the way for a young Lionel Messi to rise — to whom he would ultimately pass the No.10 mantle.
Rivaldo (1997–2002)
A one-man highlight reel, Rivaldo was Barcelona’s beacon during a difficult transitional era. His elegance masked raw power, and his clutch performances made him a fan favourite. He won the 1999 Ballon d’Or. He often carried the team on his back and gave the No.10 shirt a sense of drama and artistry.
One of his most memorable moment include 2001 hat-trick vs. Valencia, including a bicycle-kick winner that clinched Champions League qualification
Romário (1993–1995)
In the pre-fixed-number era, Romário dazzled in the number 10 jersey alongside Hristo Stoichkov. Under Johan Cruyff’s stewardship, Romário produced one of the most explosive debut seasons in club history:
He scored 32 goals in his first season and played a key role in La Liga title win. His hat-trick vs. Real Madrid still are remembered by fans. His time was brief but blinding — a burst of brilliance that ended in tension with Cruyff and an early exit.
Luis Suárez Miramontes (1955–1961)
Before all the flash and flair, there was Luis Suárez — Spain’s only Ballon d’Or winner to date (1960). Though he often wore the No.10 in a time of rotating numbers, his role was that of the classic playmaker, orchestrating attacks with finesse. He guided Barcelona to multiple league titles. A true pioneer, Suárez gave the No.10 early credibility before it became synonymous with superstars.
Also Read: List Of Trophies Won By Chelsea In History
Lionel Messi (2008–2021)
Messi, still active, became the ultimate embodiment of the No.10 shirt. With 624+ goals in the No.10, he is the undisputed leader of the pack. He won
7 Ballon d’Ors while at Barcelona, out of his eight.
The Argentine great has 10 La Liga, 7 Copa del Rey, 4 Champions League titles while at Camp Nou. He has countless El Clásico masterclasses, hat-tricks, and heart-stopping solo runs.
Messi turned the No.10 into a sacred artifact at Camp Nou. From the day he inherited it from Ronaldinho in 2008 until his emotional exit in 2021, Messi didn’t just wear the shirt — he redefined it.
