By Martin Graham
Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappe may be dazzling audiences in Spain, but it is England where Europe’s most prolific dribbler currently plays. Barcelona’s teenage sensation Yamal ranks fourth for successful take-ons across Europe’s top five divisions, having completed 21 so far. Just ahead of him is Real Sociedad’s Ander Barrenetxea with 22, while Mbappe sits in second place on 30.
All three trail behind Tottenham Hotspur’s summer recruit Mohammed Kudus. Analysis by Adrian Clarke has highlighted that the Ghanaian winger has recorded 30 successful dribbles this season—more than anyone else in the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga, or Ligue 1. Primarily attacking from Spurs’ right side since his move from West Ham, Kudus has opened a significant gap domestically, with Brighton’s Yankuba Minteh his closest challenger on 19.
A proven specialist in beating defenders
Kudus’ ability to glide past opponents is no sudden breakthrough. His knack for unsettling backlines emerged early at Nordsjaelland, where he featured in a fluid attacking system, often in central roles. His reputation grew further at Ajax, where he topped the Eredivisie charts for dribbles in 2022–23.
After moving to West Ham, he maintained that level by finishing as Europe’s leading dribbler in 2023–24. Last season, he ranked second in the Premier League behind Jeremy Doku, though both trailed Yamal’s remarkable numbers in Spain.
More than just flair
Kudus’ contribution at Tottenham has extended beyond individual skill. Only Jack Grealish of Everton has been involved in more goal-creating actions this season. Kudus has five such actions, matching Riccardo Calafiori, Antoine Semenyo, and teammate Pape Matar Sarr.
He also sits joint-top of the Premier League assist standings with Grealish, both having provided four. In addition, Kudus leads the league in crosses attempted, with Spurs full-back Pedro Porro second in that metric.
While Mbappe’s nine La Liga goals and Yamal’s superior assist rate underline their own strengths, Kudus has made an immediate impact at his new club. Clarke notes that head coach Thomas Frank has encouraged him to play with freedom, and his confident, entertaining displays have quickly caught the eye.
