The famous number 31 soccer players on this list didn’t just wear the shirt; they made it matter. For some, number 31 marked a breakout phase or a late-career evolution. Others wore it consistently, turning a squad number into a symbol of reliability or flair. From George Weah’s brief but impactful spell at Chelsea to Bastian Schweinsteiger’s Bayern brilliance, these players proved that legacy isn’t tied to tradition, it’s defined by performance. Let’s take a look at 10 famous number 31 soccer players who made this number their own. Visit Cheap football shirts in UK to find premium number 32 kits worn by these unforgettable players.

1. George Weah

When George Weah joined Chelsea in 2000, he wore the number 31 shirt. Though past his Ballon d’Or peak, he still possessed the elegance and power that once made him the best player in the world. His debut goal for Chelsea—just minutes after coming on—was a reminder of his instinctive finishing. More than his on-field impact, Weah’s time in the Premier League helped inspire a generation of African players.

Trailblazer: The first (and still only) African Ballon d’Or winner
Instant Impact: Scored a winner on his Chelsea debut wearing 31

Striker bursting forward on a solo run (Image: The Sun)

2. Bastian Schweinsteiger

Bastian Schweinsteiger wore the number 31 jersey throughout his glittering career at Bayern Munich. Starting as a winger, he evolved into a deep-lying playmaker and leader. He dictated tempo, won duels, and played with a quiet authority that suited the number. As one of Bayern’s most decorated players, Schweinsteiger turned 31 into a symbol of reliability and class.

Bayern Icon: Over 500 appearances, 8 Bundesliga titles
World Champion: Vital to Germany’s World Cup 2014 victory

Midfielder controlling play with composure (Image: Goal)

See all list Cheap Bayern Munich Football shirt and kits

3. Malang Sarr

Wearing number 31 at Chelsea, Malang Sarr emerged as a composed centre-back with a strong left foot. Although not a regular starter, Sarr showed versatility—slotting into various defensive systems when needed. He played a key supporting role in Chelsea’s tightly contested campaigns during transitional years.

Tactical Utility: Comfortable in a back three or back four
Youth Potential: Still developing under top-level coaching

Defender intercepting play with focus (Image: L’Équipe)

4. Nemanja Matić

Nemanja Matić wore number 31 at Manchester United and brought a calming presence to midfield. A natural holding player, he was adept at screening the defense, breaking up opposition play, and distributing with minimal fuss. His positional discipline and experience made him a favorite of multiple managers.

Midfield Shield: Provided balance behind attacking players
Big Game Ready: Trusted in derbies and high-pressure matches

Midfielder anchoring play with strength (Image: Itasport)

See all list Cheap Manchester United Football shirt and kits

5. Raheem Sterling

During his early years at Liverpool, Raheem Sterling wore number 31—and became one of the most exciting young talents in English football. His speed, dribbling, and fearless attacking play helped him break into the senior team as a teenager. Sterling’s growth while wearing 31 set the stage for his eventual move to Manchester City and international stardom.

Youth Breakout: Emerged as Liverpool’s next great winger
Fearless Runner: Unpredictable and direct from wide areas

Winger accelerating past defenders (Image: TNTSports)

See all list Cheap Manchester City Football shirt and kits

6. Marouane Fellaini

Fellaini wore number 31 at Everton and Manchester United, and became a tactical wildcard. With his towering frame and aerial dominance, he was often used as a disruptor—both in midfield and up front. While divisive, his contributions in key games were undeniable, including late goals and gritty performances.

Set-Piece Threat: Dominated in both boxes
Manager’s Tool: Used in various roles depending on the situation

Midfielder winning an aerial duel (Image: NBCSport)

7. Ederson Moraes

At Manchester City, Ederson wears number 31—and has redefined what it means to be a modern goalkeeper. With elite distribution, composure under pressure, and quick reflexes, he’s not just a shot-stopper but an initiator of attacks. His left foot is a weapon, allowing City to play higher up the pitch.

Ball-Playing Keeper: Arguably the best distributor in world football
Defensive Backbone: Crucial to Pep Guardiola’s high-line system

Goalkeeper launching a precise long pass (mage: Shutterstock)

8. Sead Kolašinac

Kolašinac wore number 31 at Arsenal and was known for his strength and physicality. Though primarily a left-back, he occasionally filled in as a centre-back. While his technical limitations were debated, his work ethic and power made him a favorite in tough fixtures.

Physical Force: Often deployed for added defensive security
Fan Favorite: Earned respect with no-nonsense performances

Full-back muscling past opposition on the flank (Image: JustArsenal)

9. Robin Knoche

A consistent performer in the Bundesliga, Robin Knoche has worn number 31 throughout his time at Wolfsburg and Union Berlin. A traditional centre-back, Knoche thrives on positioning, timing, and aerial strength. He has been central to Union’s rise in recent seasons, anchoring their defensive identity.

Defensive Leader: Reads the game with experience and clarity
Bundesliga Mainstay: Nearly 300 top-flight appearances

Defender organizing the backline vocally (Image: Textilvergehen)

10. Andy Lonergan

Andy Lonergan has worn number 31 at various clubs, often serving as a backup goalkeeper. While not a regular starter, he’s valued for his experience and mentorship within squads. At Liverpool, he was part of the Champions League-winning setup, providing depth and training ground quality.

Reliable Veteran: Respected for his attitude and professionalism
Squad Depth: Trusted to step in when needed, even at elite clubs

Veteran goalkeeper directing defenders (Image: Evening Standard)

Conclusion

From Schweinsteiger’s tactical brilliance to Ederson’s modern reinvention of goalkeeping, the famous number 31 soccer players on this list proved that legacy isn’t confined to the most celebrated digits. These players wore 31 with pride, purpose, and in many cases, quiet excellence. Number 31 may not scream superstardom, but in each of these cases, it became a mark of leadership, emergence, or footballing evolution. Which of these number 31 players stands out most to you? Drop your take in the comments!