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For many, football jersey numbers are a matter of importance. Assigning the correct number to the correct player is not easy, though, but when that happens, it makes people happy.
The no. 5 is generally worn by a centre-back, while a few defensive midfielders prefer the number as well. Some of the best centre-backs in the game wear the no. 5, which is a prestigious jersey number.
On that note, here is a look at the five best no. 5s in world football at the moment.
#5 Sergio Busquets (Barcelona)
One of the greatest defensive midfielders of all time, Sergio Busquets is a key reason behind Barcelona's success in the last 13 years.
A one-club man, Busquets made his debut for Barcelona in 2008, and immediately impressed with his performances. The Spain international does not boast incredible physical strength or pace, but is an excellent reader of the game and is technically gifted.
Busquets has enjoyed a remarkably consistent stint at the highest level for club and country.
The 33-year-old is still going strong, and is now the captain of Barcelona following the departure of Lionel Messi. Busquets has been a key presence for his country as well, winning the FIFA World Cup and the Euros with Spain.
#4 Rodrigo De Paul (Atletico Madrid)
La Liga's new shiny addition, Rodrigo De Paul, will hope to carry his Copa America 2021 form to the new season for Atletico Madrid.
De Paul was heavily linked with a move away from Udinese for some time, with the likes of Leeds United and Inter Milan suggested as potential destinations. Atletico Madrid, though, managed to sign him this summer for £31.5 million.
The Argentina international joins the club after a triumphant Copa America 2021 campaign with the Albiceleste.
The 27-year-old is creative, and does not shirk away from his defensive duties. De Paul will look to provide impetus to Atletico Madrid's midfield, and is familiar with the La Liga setting, having previously played in the competition for Valencia.
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#3 Marquinhos (Paris Saint-Germain)
One of the best centre-backs in the world, Marquinhos is Paris Saint-Germain's captain and one of the first names on their teamsheet.
However, eyebrows were raised when Paris Saint-Germain signed Marquinhos in 2013 for £28.3 million. The 27-year-old, though, has blossomed into one of the most compete defenders in the game, a player who is comfortable on the ball and is defensively gifted.
Marquinhos is capable of operating as a defensive midfielder as well, and has performed well in that position in recent years. The Brazil international is a very consistent performer too.
#2 Harry Maguire (Manchester United)
Harry Maguire has had his fair share of criticism since joining Manchester United from Leicester City in 2019 for £78.3 million, a deal that made him the most expensive centre-back in the world.
Maguire's performances have quietened the noise, though. One of the best ball-playing centre-backs in the game, the England international has solidified Manchester United's defence with his physicality and leadership. He is now the captain of the club.
The former Hull City man is renowned for his comfort on the ball. Maguire's excellent displays at Euro 2020 once again reiterated his quality, with Manchester United and England looking like different teams without him.
#1 Jorginho (Chelsea)
As per many, Jorginho was one of the best players, if not the best in the world, last season.
There has been debate on the topic, but there is no denying Jorginho's impact in Chelsea's 2020-21 Champions League win and Italy's Euro 2020 triumph. The midfielder was immense for both club and country, dictating play from the base of midfield with his stellar passing.
The 29-year-old is not a prolific scorer, so calls for him to win the Ballon d'Or award this year may be over the top. However, Jorginho is certainly one of the best midfielders in the world at the moment.
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