Football Shirts, Names & Numbers

This book is a creation based on the obsession with football facts, players, shirts and numbers.

Football is a game defined by its legends, its moments of brilliance, and the unforgettable players who grace the pitch. But one of the most iconic and enduring aspects of the sport—the thing that connects every player to their identity—is often overlooked: the number on their shirt. It’s more than just a piece of fabric. It’s a symbol of the player’s role, their personality, and often, their place in the history of the game.

Football Shirts, Names and Numbers is an immersive exploration of this fascinating aspect of the beautiful game. Created by The Imagine Not Liking Football Club, the online content creators known for their unique and engaging takes on the world of football, this book celebrates the rich history of football through the players and the numbers they wore. With over 1,600 examples of iconic names and their associated shirt numbers, this book offers a comprehensive look at how the number on the back of a player's shirt has become a symbol of their legacy.

A Perfect Gift for Football Fans

Football Shirts, Names and Numbers is the perfect companion for anyone who loves football. Whether you’re a lifelong supporter of a club, a fan of the World Cup, or someone who appreciates the history of the game, this book offers something for everyone. It’s a beautifully designed, easy-to-reference guide that you’ll return to time and time again to explore the fascinating history of football through the numbers that define it.

This book is also the perfect gift for the football fan in your life. Whether they’re fascinated by trivia, passionate about a specific player, or simply enjoy reliving the great moments in football history, Football Shirts, Names and Numbers will provide hours of enjoyment and insight.

The Power and evolution of a Shirt Number

The heart of Football Shirts, Names and Numbers lies in its comprehensive collection of over 1,600 players and their iconic shirt numbers. From the early days of football to the modern era, the book spans the history of the game, covering not only legendary figures but also those players who made their mark in more understated ways.

Shirt numbers in football have evolved over time. Initially, numbers were assigned based on a player’s position: #1 for the goalkeeper, #9 for the centre-forward, #10 for the playmaker. But over the years, this system became more fluid. Some players began to choose numbers that defied tradition.

Football Shirts, Names and Numbers explores how the concept of shirt numbers evolved, reflecting broader changes in football itself—from the tactical shifts in the game to the rise of players as global superstars.

Football Shirts, Names and Numbers aims to capture the imagination of football fans with stories, facts, and memories of the worlds greatest game.