Johan Cruyff: The Reason Behind the Dutch Legend’s Iconic Number 14 Shirt

Johan Cruyff: The Reason Behind the Dutch Legend’s Iconic Number 14 Shirt

Johan Cruyff: The Reason Behind the Dutch Legend’s Iconic Number 14 Shirt

Johan Cruyff, widely regarded as one of football’s greatest players, is famously associated with the number 14 shirt—a number that has become iconic in the sport. Unlike most football legends who typically wore the number 10, Cruyff’s choice of number 14 was both unusual and deeply personal. The story dates back to 1970 when Cruyff, who normally wore the number 9, handed his shirt to a teammate and had to pick a new number. He chose 14 at random, and after an exceptional performance in that game, he decided to stick with it. The number became a symbol of his unique style and individuality on the pitch, further cementing his legacy as a footballing genius. Today, the number 14 shirt is synonymous with Johan Cruyff, representing not just a jersey, but a symbol of innovation and excellence in football.