5 best number 7s in football right now (2022-23)
The number 7 jersey has always been synonymous with great players like Cristiano Ronaldo and David Beckham. This season has also seen some incredible performances by players donning the number 7 jersey.
While some famous number 7s like Son Heung-Min and Raheem Sterling have struggled this season, others have really dazzled and bamboozled defenses with their passing skills, dribbling ability and vision.
Let's take a look at the five best number 7s in football during the 2022-23 season:
#5 Felipe Anderson (Lazio)
Felipe Anderson might have struggled to make much of an impact during his spell at West Ham United, but he has definitely been one of the main creative forces at Lazio this season.
Currently third in the Serie A table, Lazio will be hoping to secure a UEFA Champions League place for next season. They will be banking on Felipe Anderson to continue his good form and finish the season strongly.
Usually operating on the right wing, the Brazilian has played every league game so far for Lazio and has contributed nine goals and two assists in 36 games this season. His dribbling and passing ability have created many openings for Le Aquile.
With four Man of the Match awards so far, the tricky winger has been one of the standout performers for Maurizio Sarri this season.
#4 Lorenzo Pellegrini (AS Roma)
The only midfielder on this list, AS Roma's captain Lorenzo Pellegrini has been reliable, consistent and has always delivered under pressure for Jose Mourinho this season.
An excellent set-piece taker, the 26-year-old has played a crucial role in Roma's stunning run to the Europa League final, scoring four goals and contributing four assists in 13 games.
A versatile player capable of playing many roles in the centre of the park, Pellegrini is one of the most complete midfielders in world football right now. With a huge Europa League final coming up against Sevilla, Jose Mourinho will be hoping for a captain's performance from his number 7.
#3 Cristiano Ronaldo (Al-Nassr)
Undoubtedly the most famous number 7 in the world right now, Cristiano Ronaldo has continued to score goals for fun in Saudi Arabia at Al Nassr.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has had an instant impact in the Saudi Pro League scoring a remarkable 13 goals in just 14 games. Playing mostly as a centre-forward this season, the 38-year-old is supremely fit and capable of winning games single-handedly on his day.
One of the greatest players of all time, Cristiano Ronaldo has also shown that he is still a vital member of the Portugal national team by scoring four goals in the two Euro qualification matches in March.
Quite simply a global icon, Cristiano Ronaldo still remains one of the best forwards in world football at the moment.
#2 Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)
Arguably Arsenal's best player this season, Bukayo Saka is one of the best right wingers in world football at the moment. Capable of scoring crucial goals and setting up teammates with equal ease, Saka has scored an incredible 13 goals and contributed 11 assists in the Premier League this season.
Still only 21, the England international has shown immense maturity and mental fortitude this season to emerge as one of the Premier League's brightest talents.
Arsenal might have lost out on the Premier League title narrowly to Manchester City but they will be counting on Saka to help mount a title challenge once again next season.
#1 Kylian Mbappe (PSG)
Was there any doubt as to who would be number 1 on this list? PSG and France superstar Kylian Mbappe is set to rule the football world over the next few years. Blessed with explosive pace, excellent dribbling ability and clinical finishing skills, Mbappe is almost a shoo-in to win the prestigious Ballon d'Or award in the future.
His numbers for PSG this season are almost mindboggling. In just 32 Ligue 1 appearances, the France superstar has scored an incredible 28 goals. The top scorer in Ligue 1 at the moment, Mbappe is undoubtedly the most in-form and important player in the famous Messi-Neymar-Mbappe trio.
Still just 24, PSG's number 7 is set to rule the footballing world for many years to come.