In football, no jersey carries as much weight, prestige and responsibility as the number 10. It is the jersey reserved for artists, conductors and match-winners – the players who see opportunities where others don’t. Players who bend games to their will.
The number 10 jersey is the equivalent of a five-star rating in luxury—exclusive, demanding and unforgiving. Likewise in the PSL, those who wear it know that they must carry the whole team on their back. They must help their teams win matches even where it seems impossible.
That’s why only the truly gifted have been trusted with it. It is also why the jersey has been rumoured to have been retired at some clubs, like Orlando Pirates, until someone among the current crop of players is worthy enough to wear the jersey of the greatest.
Let’s take a look at some of the players who have been good enough to wear this badge of footballing royalty at Orlando Pirates, Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs.
Orlando Pirates – The Sacred Ten
At Orlando Pirates, the number 10 is more than a squad number; it is a symbol of greatness. Legends such as Percy “Chippa” Moloi, Jomo Sono, King Kaizer “Matatazela” Mkhwanazi, Blessing “Killer” Mgidi, and Basil Steenkamp all wore the famous jersey with distinction, setting the standard for those who followed.
The last player to wear the number 10 throughout a full league season was Steve Lekoelea. That era came to an abrupt end during the 2001/02 season when the jersey was withdrawn following a disciplinary matter. From that point on, the club effectively retired the number for domestic competitions.
However, during the CAF competition, the jersey occasionally reemerge out of retirement. Due to restrictions on squad numbering in continental tournaments, Pirates were forced to reassign the number sometimes. In 2006, all-time top goalscorer Benedict “Tso” Vilakazi was entrusted with the jersey. Years later, it passed to Oupa Manyisa, and most recently to Vincent Pule, keeping the number alive—if only temporarily—on the continental stage.
Recently, the debate raged again where pundits suggested that Tito Maswanganyi should be given the number. Club legen
Mamelodi Sundowns – The Playmakers’ Crown
At Mamelodi Sundowns, the number 10 has traditionally belonged to flair players and creative leaders. In the 1990s, Roger “The General” Feutmba, popularized the jersey. That popularity was continued by Godfrey Sapula in the early 2000s. Papi Zothwane and Thando Mngomeni also came and carried the responsibility.
The modern era elevated the shirt even further through Teko Modise, whose elegance and influence embodied everything the number represents. More recently, the baton has been passed to international stars such as Gaston Sirino, Lucas Ribeiro and Nuno Santos, maintaining Sundowns’ tradition of excellence in the number 10 role.
Kaizer Chiefs – Icons and Innovators
At Kaizer Chiefs, the number 10 has long been associated with charisma and creativity. Early legends like Absalom “Scara” Thindwa and John “Shoes” Moshoeu wore the jersey with pride. When Shoes left for Turkey, he left the jersey on the capable shoulders of Isaac “Shakes” Kungoane. Shakes’ journey is particularly iconic. He initially wore number 11, went on loan to Pretoria City and returned to Naturena as the club’s number 10, cementing his legendary status.
Players such as Stanton “Stiga” Fredricks further enriched the legacy, while in recent times, Gaston Sirino has taken on the responsibility of wearing the famous jersey at Amakhosi.
