Printing a name and number on a jersey is one of the least reversible decisions when buying a football jersey. A poorly chosen print, a transferred player, or a retired number can quickly make the jersey difficult to wear. This practical guide answers all the questions you may have before confirming your order.
Your first name or a player's name: the first question
The most lasting solution. Your first name will never leave the club during the transfer window. Ideal if you want a personalized jersey that will not quickly become outdated. Some people add their amateur playing number or a symbolic number.
The most common choice. Give priority to players on long-term contracts or with a strong connection to the club. Avoid players whose contracts are ending or who are mentioned in transfer rumors.
Zidane at Juventus, Cantona at United, Bergkamp at Arsenal: some players are so closely associated with a club that their name remains relevant decades after they leave. The confident collector's choice.
Confirm the recipient's first name or favorite player. Never guess the player on a gift: the risk of getting it wrong is high. If in doubt, leave the jersey without printing and include a gift voucher.
Which number to choose
The number is just as important as the name. In modern football, players have assigned numbers that change little from one season to the next at major clubs. If you print a player's name, always use their current number at the club. The wrong number with the right name is an obvious mistake that any knowledgeable fan will spot.
Legendary numbers to know
Warning: some clubs retire numbers in tribute to legendary players. These numbers are no longer assigned and cannot be worn by other players. Check before printing a historic number associated with a specific club.
What the official rules allow
| Printing type | Official store | Independent workshop | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| First name / last name | Yes | Yes | No restrictions |
| Number of your choice | Yes | Yes | Except for officially retired numbers |
| Current player's name | Yes | Yes | Check that the player is still with the club |
| Official competition patch | Yes | No | Reserved for licensed retailers |
| Title stars | Depending on the club | Not recommended | Right reserved by the club |
| Name of a retired player (legend) | Yes (retro) | Yes | Common practice among collectors |
| Personalized message | No | Yes | Official stores often refuse |
Common mistakes to avoid
The riskiest time of year. A player mentioned in a rumor on a Friday may sign elsewhere the following Monday. If you buy between June and the end of August, either bet on a player whose future is certain, or choose your first name.
Players sometimes change numbers when joining a new club. Always check the current number on the club's official website before placing your order, not on an external source that may be outdated.
Check the printing immediately upon receipt before removing the tags. A misaligned letter, a missing accent, an incorrect font: this is your only opportunity to request a correction or refund.
The away shirt often changes more dramatically than the home shirt from one season to the next. If you print the name of an uncertain player on an away shirt, you could end up with a shirt whose design is no longer current AND a player who has left after a year.
Find our collection of official club shirts on Elite Fanstore, available with official printing.