Dribbling is still one of the most crucial skills in modern football. It’s what allows players to break lines, unbalance defences and create chances where none seem to exist. Based on successful take-ons across all competitions this season, here are the ten most effective dribblers in the game right now.
10. Michael Olise – 97 successful dribbles
Even in a disrupted season due to injuries, Olise has shown why he’s such a valued asset in the Premier League. Calm under pressure and incredibly smooth on the ball, his ability to ghost past players remains unmatched in tight spaces.
9. Jamal Musiala – 100 successful dribbles
Musiala’s dribbling has always been elite in confined areas. He plays like a street footballer in a professional structure – unpredictable, intelligent and incredibly calm in the final third.
8. Florian Wirtz – 105 successful dribbles
Wirtz has added directness to his already sharp technical profile. For Bayer Leverkusen, he’s not just creating, he’s driving through opposition lines with purpose and control.
7. Rafael Leão – 105 successful dribbles
Leão remains one of the most explosive wide players in Europe. His speed, physicality and confidence in taking players on at full tilt continues to terrorise defenders in Serie A.
6. Jamie Bynoe-Gittens – 112 successful dribbles
The Dortmund winger has made his mark this season with bold, direct attacking play. He’s quick, positive in possession and constantly looking to isolate his full-back. A fearless talent.
5. Nico Williams – 119 successful dribbles
With Athletic Club, Nico Williams has stepped up as a consistent threat on the flank. His quick feet and low centre of gravity allow him to beat defenders both inside and out, and he’s added maturity to his game this season.
4. Jérémy Doku – 128 successful dribbles
At Manchester City, Doku has become a one-on-one specialist. His take-on volume is immense, and he’s one of the few wingers in Europe given the freedom to go at defenders repeatedly without restriction.
3. Vinícius Júnior – 130 successful dribbles
Vinícius is no longer just an exciting winger – he’s a match-winner. His dribbling is direct and purposeful, and he’s developed the timing and end product to go with his flair. Still a nightmare to defend against.
2. Kylian Mbappé – 133 successful dribbles
Often praised for his pace and finishing, Mbappé’s dribbling remains one of his most lethal tools. Whether operating from the left or playing centrally, his ability to shift direction at top speed makes him nearly impossible to contain.
1. Lamine Yamal – 240 successful dribbles
What Lamine Yamal is doing at 17 defies belief. With 240 successful dribbles this season, he’s not just ahead – he’s on another planet. Every time he receives the ball, something happens. Whether it’s beating defenders, drawing fouls or opening up space, Yamal plays like a seasoned winger with the energy of a teenager. He is not just the best young dribbler in the world – he’s the best dribbler full stop.
