Arsenal legend Jens Lehmann isn't the only big name at N5 FC — the squad is packed with former Premier League and Championship regulars. Here's who's in it.
The most decorated squad in the league?
When N5 FC lined up their Season 4 squad, they quietly assembled one of the most experienced groups anywhere in Baller League UK. Managed by Jens Lehmann — the former Arsenal and Germany goalkeeper, a member of the legendary “Invincibles” side — N5 have paired a world-class coach with a roster full of players who have competed at the top of the English game.
It is a combination that gives N5 a serious claim to being the league’s most professional outfit. Here is a look at the names that stand out.
The manager: Jens Lehmann
Lehmann needs little introduction. A Premier League winner with Arsenal in 2003–04, a Bundesliga champion with Borussia Dortmund and a UEFA Cup winner with Schalke, he also won 61 caps for Germany. His elite-level experience and no-nonsense approach set the tone for everything N5 do.
Billy Sharp
The headline name in the squad is Billy Sharp, one of the most prolific goalscorers in the history of the English Football League. A club legend at Sheffield United, Sharp scored goals for Scunthorpe United, Doncaster Rovers, Southampton and Leeds United, was the Championship’s top scorer in 2018–19, and has scored over 200 career league goals. Read his full player spotlight.
Nile Ranger
Nile Ranger came through at Newcastle United, making his first-team debut as a teenager before spells at Swindon Town, Southend United and Blackpool. Powerful and quick, he is a real handful in the 6v6 format. Spotlight.
Joe Bennett
Joe Bennett is an experienced left-back who came through at Middlesbrough and went on to play for Aston Villa, before helping Cardiff City win promotion to the Premier League in 2017–18. A quality left foot and a threat from set pieces. Spotlight.
Kieron Freeman
Kieron Freeman is a right-back with extensive Championship and League One experience, most notably at Sheffield United and with spells at Nottingham Forest and Derby County. His overlapping runs are made for the 6v6 game. Spotlight.
Mustapha Carayol
Mustapha Carayol is a skilful, pacy winger and a Gambia international who played at the top of the Championship for Middlesbrough, Bristol City, Huddersfield Town and Ipswich Town. His one-on-one dribbling is tailor-made for the Game Changer windows. Spotlight.
Why it matters
Baller League is won and lost in the margins — sharp finishing, composure under pressure and quick decisions when the rules change. A squad that combines a legendary manager with proven professional know-how is a dangerous proposition. If Lehmann can get his ex-pros firing, N5 FC will be a genuine force in Season 4.
Follow N5 all season
N5 open their campaign against SDS on opening night. Keep up with the full squad on the N5 FC team page, every result on the league table, and the whole season on the Season 4 hub.