Ranking the best players to have worn the number 10 shirt at Manchester United

The No. 10 jersey at Manchester United carries an aura of prestige, creativity, and responsibility — a number worn by those expected to define games and deliver on the biggest stage.

Traditionally reserved for playmakers and elite forwards, the No. 10 shirt at Old Trafford is steeped in history. Over the years, some of football’s most iconic names have donned the famous jersey — leaving behind unforgettable moments, silverware, and goals that helped shape the club’s legacy.

Here’s our ranking of the best players to have worn the No. 10 jersey for Manchester United:

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1. Wayne Rooney (2007–2017)

When it comes to the No. 10 shirt at Manchester United, no name shines brighter than Wayne Rooney. The England international wore the number for a decade and became the club’s all-time leading goalscorer, netting 253 goals in total.

Rooney combined vision, aggression, technical skill, and tireless work rate like few modern forwards. He thrived in multiple roles — from striker to attacking midfielder — and delivered on the biggest stages. His trophy haul is immense, including five Premier League titles, a Champions League, FA Cup, Europa League, and multiple domestic cups.

Rooney didn’t just wear the No. 10 — he defined it.

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2. Denis Law (1962–1973)

Although squad numbers weren’t fixed during his era, Denis Law embodied everything the No. 10 jersey would come to represent. Known affectionately as “The King” by fans, Law was one of United’s first true global superstars.

He scored 237 goals in 404 appearances, won the Ballon d’Or in 1964, and was a key figure in the legendary “Holy Trinity” alongside George Best and Bobby Charlton. Law’s flair, audacity, and ruthless finishing made him one of the most feared attackers in Europe.

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3. Mark Hughes (1983–1995)

During his second spell at the club, Mark Hughes wore the No. 10 shirt and became a firm fan favourite thanks to his explosive volleys and clutch performances. His most memorable contribution came in the 1991 Cup Winners’ Cup final, where he scored twice against Barcelona.

Hughes played a pivotal role in Sir Alex Ferguson’s early success, winning two Premier League titles, three FA Cups, a League Cup, and twice being named United’s Player of the Year. His blend of physicality and technique set a standard for forwards that followed.

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4. Teddy Sheringham (1997–2001)

Signed to replace the retiring Eric Cantona, Teddy Sheringham took the No. 10 shirt and etched his name into United folklore during the 1998/99 Treble-winning season.

He scored the equaliser and assisted the winner in that unforgettable Champions League final against Bayern Munich. Though often used as a squad player, Sheringham’s intelligence, calmness under pressure, and big-game impact earned him three Premier League titles, an FA Cup, and a Champions League.

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5. Zlatan Ibrahimović (2016–2018)

Zlatan Ibrahimović brought swagger, power, and global star power to Old Trafford. After wearing the No. 9 in his debut season, he switched to No. 10 for his second year at the club.

Zlatan scored 28 goals in his first campaign, helping United win the Europa League, League Cup, and Community Shield. Though injuries limited his second season, his short stint still left a lasting impression on fans and teammates alike.

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6. Marcus Rashford (2022–present)

A product of United’s famed academy, Marcus Rashford inherited the No. 10 jersey in 2022 and has already scored over 130 goals for the club. Known for his electric pace, directness, and finishing ability, Rashford is one of the most exciting forwards in Europe when in form.

He played a key role in the 2023 Carabao Cup triumph, ending United’s six-year trophy drought. While his legacy is still being written, consistency and further silverware will be key to his long-term place in No. 10 history.

Rashford is currently up for sale with United willing to accept offers of around £40m, Barcelona are said to be interested in the English forward.

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7. David Beckham (briefly wore No. 10)

Though best known for the iconic No. 7, David Beckham did wear the No. 10 in select matches during his United career. He was central to the club’s domestic dominance in the late 1990s and early 2000s, including a starring role in the 1999 Treble.

His precision crossing, long-range passing, and tireless professionalism made him a club legend — even if the No. 10 wasn’t his primary shirt.

Image credits: Getty, Wiki Commons, Pinterest