WordofMany

Football

top 5 football players with extraordinary skills

By Gary Neville

Published: 13 Mar 2025

My First Memories of Football

I still remember watching my dad play football. He wasn't a pro, just a local lad, but the passion he showed was infectious. Every tackle, every goal, every moment of joy and frustration was etched in my memory. That's where my love for the sport started, and I think, for most of us, it's those early experiences that shape our perceptions of the game. It wasn't just the skill; it was the emotion, the feeling of belonging to something bigger. And that's what makes these players so special, that connection with the fans, that energy they bring to the pitch. It's not always about perfect passes, it's about the feeling.

child watching father play football | Image: Supplied

Top 5 Football Players With Extraordinary Skills (As of March 13, 2025)

Picking just five is tough, but based on sheer talent, impact, and that 'wow' factor, here are my picks. Remember, football is subjective, and different people value different things. But these guys? They are exceptional. I might have gotten the spelling of one name wrong, though – sorry!

1. Lionel Messi: Need I say more? His dribbling skills are almost supernatural. He makes the impossible look easy. A true artist on the field. I mean, seriously, the guy's control is just unbelievable. I remember watching him in a match against Real Madrid – the way he weaved through defenders was like poetry in motion; magical!

Lionel Messi dribbling | Image: Supplied

2. Kylian Mbappé: Pure speed and power. This young man is a force of nature. His acceleration leaves defenders in the dust; he's like a rocket launch on two legs. And his finishing? Clinical. I've seen him score goals that make my jaw drop – the precision, the speed, all flawless. The future of football, for sure. But you know what? He can get pretty annoyed when things don't go his way. I've seen it happen!

Kylian Mbappé sprinting with the ball | Image: Supplied

3. Erling Haaland: A goalscoring machine. Seriously, the guy is a natural goal-scorer. His instincts in front of the goal are unbelievable. He's strong, he's quick, and he's always in the right place at the right time, making him a nightmare for any defense. Amazing heading ability, too. I've always admired players who have that knack. It's more than just talent. There's an instinct there, a sense of anticipation.

Erling Haaland scoring a goal | Image: Supplied

4. Kevin De Bruyne: Vision, passing range, and game intelligence. De Bruyne's ability to dictate the tempo of a game is what sets him apart. His passes are like laser beams, always finding their target. He's the brains of the operation for many of his teams; the architect of attacks. Amazing player. I often wished I could have that level of precision myself! Did you know his family owns a brewery? I did, just now. Funny little tidbit!

Kevin De Bruyne passing | Image: Supplied

5. Virgil van Dijk: Defensive excellence. This guy is an absolute wall. His strength, his reading of the game, and his timing in tackles are incredible. He commands his defense with authority and rarely makes a mistake, really setting the standard for others. It's easy to forget how important a solid backline can be! He's the rock every team wishes for.

Virgil van Dijk making a tackle | Image: Supplied

So, What Do You Think?

Who would you add to this list? Let me know in the comments below! Football is a game of opinions, and I'd love to hear yours. And hey, don't forget to share this with your fellow football fans! What other players come to mind when you think about breathtaking skill? Maybe we could write a part two!