Dribbling isn’t just about quick feet; it’s an art form that requires precision, creativity, and a deep connection with the ball. While scoring goals and delivering assists are what most fans notice, it’s often the players with exceptional dribbling skills who truly change the game. They’re the ones who can break down even the toughest defenses, keep the crowd on the edge of their seats, and make football look effortless and fun.
Some players stand out for their ability to glide past opponents as if they weren’t even there. These are the players who make dribbling look magical, turning defenders inside out with a flick of their ankle or a subtle change of direction.
Let’s get to know the top 10 players whose magic on the ball has set them apart from the rest in 2024.
10. Lionel Messi – Inter Miami
When Messi first burst onto the scene at Barcelona in 2004, he was a shy winger who seemed more troubled by his oversized shirt than the defenders he danced past. Almost twenty years later, he might not run as much, but he’s just as elusive. Growing up in Rosario, he was convinced his older siblings let him win because they couldn’t get the ball off him. His connection with the ball hasn’t changed, and no one in MLS can take it from him, either.
Dribbling Stats (Last Year):
• Take-Ons Attempted: 6.4 per 90
• Successful Take-Ons: 3.3 per 90
• Success Rate: 51%
• Carries into the Penalty Area: 1.3 per 90
9. Nico Williams – Athletic Club
Nico Williams exploded onto the scene with Athletic Club, and his coaches’ advice was simple: “Slow down.” His rapid dribbling helped Spain at Euro 2024, where he attempted more take-ons than almost anyone. In the Copa del Rey final, Williams faced off against Mallorca defenders 17 times, helping Athletic Club to a long-awaited victory.
Dribbling Stats (Last Year):
• Take-Ons Attempted: 7.5 per 90
• Successful Take-Ons: 3.4 per 90
• Success Rate: 45%
• Carries into the Penalty Area: 2.6 per 90
8. Savinho – Manchester City
Pep Guardiola values players who can dribble, and Savinho fits right in at Manchester City. He spent last season on loan at Girona, dazzling fans with his skills as Girona achieved a record-breaking third-place finish in La Liga. According to Girona’s coach, Michel, Savinho’s one-on-one ability is reminiscent of a young Vinicius Junior.
Dribbling Stats (Last Year):
• Take-Ons Attempted: 7.1 per 90
• Successful Take-Ons: 3.1 per 90
• Success Rate: 43%
• Carries into the Penalty Area: 2.8 per 90
7. Rodrygo – Real Madrid
Rodrygo showcased his dribbling talent just minutes into his Real Madrid debut. As a lifelong fan who even had a ‘Rodrygo Real Madrid’ themed birthday party, his journey at the club has been nothing short of spectacular. He’s known for his ability to leave defenders spinning and has already won multiple league titles and Champions Leagues.
Dribbling Stats (Last Year):
• Take-Ons Attempted: 5.0 per 90
• Successful Take-Ons: 2.1 per 90
• Success Rate: 41%
• Carries into the Penalty Area: 2.6 per 90
6. Kylian Mbappe – Paris Saint-Germain
Mbappe’s dribbling style is cold and calculated. His approach? Slow down the defender, then burst past them with his signature speed. This method has made him one of Ligue 1’s top scorers for six seasons running, and he’s now set to take on La Liga defenders at Real Madrid.
Dribbling Stats (Last Year):
• Take-Ons Attempted: 5.7 per 90
• Successful Take-Ons: 2.7 per 90
• Success Rate: 47%
• Carries into the Penalty Area: 2.9 per 90
5. Mohammed Kudus – West Ham
Hailing from a tough neighbourhood in Ghana, Kudus has made a name for himself in the Premier League. He plays with the same joy he had as a kid, bouncing off defenders with ease. Last season, he completed more dribbles than any other player in Europe’s top leagues.
Dribbling Stats (Last Year):
• Take-Ons Attempted: 7.4 per 90
• Successful Take-Ons: 4.0 per 90
• Success Rate: 54%
• Carries into the Penalty Area: 1.5 per 90
4. Lamine Yamal – Barcelona
Spanish fans are excited about Lamine Yamal, with some saying he’s been touched by magic. Though comparisons to Messi are downplayed, Yamal’s dribbling talent is undeniable. Growing up playing in the streets, he learned how to trick defenders in a way few can replicate.
Dribbling Stats (Last Year):
• Take-Ons Attempted: 6.9 per 90
• Successful Take-Ons: 2.9 per 90
• Success Rate: 42%
• Carries into the Penalty Area: 2.2 per 90
3. Jeremy Doku – Manchester City
Doku’s dribbling is like water on a hot pan—fast and unpredictable. At Manchester City, he’s constantly taking on defenders, and last season, he made more carries into the penalty box than any other player in Europe.
Dribbling Stats (Last Year):
• Take-Ons Attempted: 10.5 per 90
• Successful Take-Ons: 5.5 per 90
• Success Rate: 52%
• Carries into the Penalty Area: 7.7 per 90
2. Vinicius Junior – Real Madrid
Vinicius Junior can leave defenders in tears, as Girona’s Yan Couto found out last season. But Vinicius’s dribbling is so impressive that even after putting a defender through such a tough time, he’ll be the first to offer comfort. For Vinicius, this was just another game.
Dribbling Stats (Last Year):
• Take-Ons Attempted: 7.9 per 90
• Successful Take-Ons: 3.2 per 90
• Success Rate: 40%
• Carries into the Penalty Area: 4.1 per 90
1. Jamal Musiala – Bayern Munich
Jamal Musiala’s dribbling is silky smooth. With a quick glance over his shoulder, he can glide past defenders with ease. He doesn’t rely on flashy tricks—just quick feet and smart moves that make it look effortless. For Musiala, it’s all about finding that first step past his opponent.
Dribbling Stats (Last Year):
• Take-Ons Attempted: 6.9 per 90
• Successful Take-Ons: 3.9 per 90
• Success Rate: 56%
• Carries into the Penalty Area: 1.7 per 90
Stats via FBref and Opta.
