The Legendary No. 10s of FC Barcelona: Maradona Ronaldinho and Messi……
Have you ever noticed that Barcelona’s most iconic No. 10 has gradually faded from memory?
Since the start of the 2021/22 season, the legendary shirt has been worn by Ansu Fati, but many 🔵🔴Barça fans still struggle to accept him as the rightful heir to this number.
This article will take you through the most significant players who have donned Barcelona’s No. 10 jersey from the 1980s to the present day.
1982-1984: Diego Maradona
Diego Maradona embarked on his European journey with FC Barcelona following a groundbreaking £5 million transfer from Boca Juniors.
His two-year stint, however, was marred by a severe bout of hepatitis and a brutal leg-breaking tackle that sidelined him for seven months.
Despite these setbacks, Maradona remained prolific, scoring 38 goals in 58 appearances—an impressive 0.66 goals per game. His tenure at Barcelona ultimately ended due to irreconcilable differences with president Lluís Núñez over contract negotiations, leading to a then-world record £6.9 million transfer to Napoli in 1984.
1985-1988：Steve Archibald
When Steve Archibald first arrived at Barcelona, his contract stipulated that he would wear the number 8 shirt. However, that number was already occupied by Bernd Schuster. With no one willing to take on the pressure of inheriting Maradona’s iconic number 10, Archibald stepped up to the challenge.
He proved his worth immediately, playing a key role in Barcelona’s long-awaited league title triumph in his debut season—the club’s first in a decade. However, injuries gradually saw him fade from the starting lineup, ultimately leading to his departure.
- 1989-1990: Roberto Fernández
- 1991-1992: Richard Witschge
- 1993-1994: Hristo Stoichkov
🇧🇷1993-1995: Romário
Despite leading Brazil to World Cup glory in 1994 and winning the FIFA World Player of the Year award, Romário’s time at Barcelona was far from ideal. While his on-field talent was undeniable, off-the-pitch issues—including frequent nightclub visits and habitual lateness to training—ultimately led to a fallout with manager Johan Cruyff.
Frustrated with his lack of discipline, Cruyff eventually forced him out, sending him back to Brazil. Overall, Romário’s stint at Barcelona is not considered a success.
- 1994-1996: Gheorghe Hagi
- 1995-1996: Meho Kodro
- 1995-1996: Roger García
1996-1999: GIOVANNI SILVA DE OLIVEIRA
Giovanni joined Barcelona in the summer of 1996, inheriting the iconic number 10 shirt. Over three seasons, he made 107 appearances, scoring 35 goals and providing 12 assists. During his time at the club, he contributed to an impressive trophy haul, helping Barcelona secure two La Liga titles, two Copa del Rey trophies, two Spanish Super Cups, as well as a UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup and a UEFA Super Cup. In the summer of 1999, he left for Olympiacos.
2000-2002: Rivaldo
Rivaldo arrived at Barcelona in the summer of 1997 for a fee of $26.7 million, with the club setting a hefty $92 million release clause—an indication of their high expectations. During his five-year tenure, he delivered his peak performances, cementing himself as one of the world’s finest players and securing four major titles for Barca. His exploits in La Liga and the Champions League earned him both the Ballon d’Or and FIFA World Player of the Year awards in 1999.
However, his time at Barça came to an abrupt end in July 2002 when Louis van Gaal—his long-standing adversary—returned to take charge. Rivaldo played through an era of transition, as the club moved beyond the glory of Cruyff’s Dream Team.
2002-2003: Riquelme
From the moment he emerged, Juan Román Riquelme was hailed as the next Maradona. On October 25, 1997, in Boca Juniors’ clash against River Plate, Maradona played his final professional match and was substituted off—his replacement was none other than the 19-year-old Riquelme. In a striking coincidence, Riquelme followed the same path as his legendary predecessor, joining Barcelona from Boca Juniors in 2002.
However, his time at Barça failed to showcase his full potential. Manager Louis van Gaal never truly valued him, frequently complaining that Riquelme was a signing forced upon him. As a result, he struggled to fit into the team and was unable to leave a lasting mark at the club.
2003-2008: Ronaldinho
A true footballing genius, Ronaldinho brought artistry to Barcelona. After winning the 2002 World Cup, he joined Barça in 2003, leading them to two La Liga titles, two Supercopa de España trophies, and the 2005-06 Champions League. His brilliance earned him back-to-back FIFA World Player of the Year awards (2004, 2005) and the 2005 Ballon d’Or.
His most iconic moment came at the Bernabéu, where 80,000 Real Madrid fans gave him a standing ovation. However, off-field distractions led to a rapid decline, cutting short what could have been an even greater legacy.
2008-2021：Messi
Messi—undoubtedly the greatest player in FC Barcelona’s history and the 🐐GOAT of football. No introduction needed.
FAQ
How many times has Barcelona won La Liga Titles?
How many times has Barcelona won La Liga Titles? Barcelona has won La Liga 27 times.
Where is the FC Barcelona？
Where is the FC Barcelona？ FC Barcelona’s home stadium, Camp Nou, is located in Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
How many years has Messi played for Barcelona?
How many years has Messi played for Barcelona? Lionel Messi’s 21-Year Career at Barcelona Lionel Messi’s journey at Barcelona spans 21 years, with numerous milestones and records that have shaped both his career and the club’s legacy. ⚽2000, July 1: At the age of 13 years and 7 days, Messi joined Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, moving from Argentine club Newell’s Old Boys U19 team. ⚽2003, November 16: Messi made his debut for Barcelona in a friendly match against FC Porto.
Where is the FC Barcelona？
Where is the FC Barcelona？ FC Barcelona’s home stadium, Camp Nou, is located in Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
How many times has Barcelona won La Liga Titles?
How many times has Barcelona won La Liga Titles? Barcelona has won La Liga 27 times.
