12 Players With the Best First Touch in Football History

There exists a distinguished group of players in the world of football – both past and present – who could offer a clinic on the art of the perfect first touch. Among them are luminaries like Dimitar Berbatov, Dennis Bergkamp, and Ronaldinho.

Scoring goals, providing assists, and hoisting trophies are undoubtedly significant achievements, but without mastering the fundamentals – such as the first touch – all else can seem futile. Within this exclusive circle are those with an innate ability to control a ball effortlessly, as if it were an extension of themselves.

Mastering the first touch is a foundational aspect of reaching the professional ranks, yet it's a skill often underestimated. For aspiring young players, it represents a crucial but frequently overlooked facet of the game, one that, if honed to perfection, can be instrumental in breaking through to higher levels.

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Before diving into a rabbit hole of YouTube tutorials showcasing first-touch wizardry, let's explore the top 12 maestros of the first touch in the annals of football history. Ready to embark on this journey? Let's delve into it.

12. Riyad Mahrez

Most games played for: Manchester City

Riyad Mahrez, the former Manchester City winger, is widely regarded as possessing one of the finest first touches in modern football. Recently, he made a move to the Middle East, where he continues to showcase his exceptional skill in this area.

What sets Mahrez apart is his versatility in executing various types of touches, each executed with precision and grace. His ability to position himself effectively, often leading to goal-scoring opportunities, is particularly remarkable. It's evident that his adept first touch played a significant role in his enduring importance within Pep Guardiola's teams.

Now, as he plies his trade in Saudi Arabia, Mahrez's remarkable first touch continues to shine. As the saying goes, "You never lose it," and Mahrez's godly first touch is a testament to that truth.

11. Zlatan Ibrahimovic

Most games played for: Paris Saint-Germain

Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the towering Swede, made many aspects of football seem effortless, and a pinpoint first touch was certainly one of them. As a focal point capable of holding up the ball with his pristine touch, Ibrahimovic was unparalleled at his peak.

Whether the ball was drilled along the ground or rifled towards his midriff, one could confidently expect Ibrahimovic to control it expertly and immediately assess his next move. Often, this would involve linking up with overlapping wide players who had just delivered the pass. With Ibrahimovic on the pitch, the pursuit of a player with exceptional ball control could effectively end.

10. Andres Iniesta

Most games played for: Barcelona

Andres Iniesta was renowned for his ability to control both short and long passes with remarkable precision. While it might seem effortless to the viewer, he, like many other elite players, made it appear so due to his exceptional skill. For most players, however, such control would be a significant challenge.

Iniesta consistently provided his teammates with a reliable outlet, regardless of the circumstances on the field. His deep understanding of the game and his unwavering first touch made him an invaluable asset. During Barcelona's peak Tiki-Taka era, his exquisite ball control was a fundamental aspect of his playing style and was akin to passing the first test in a job interview.

9. Marcelo

Most games played for: Real Madrid

Marcelo, best known for his dynamic partnership with Cristiano Ronaldo on Real Madrid's left flank during their peak, possessed exceptional first-touch ability. His skill in controlling the ball left spectators in awe, establishing dominance over the left side of the pitch.

Whether faced with a fast-paced delivery or a cross-field pass from a teammate, Marcelo effortlessly halted the ball's momentum. Despite not playing as a forward, the Brazilian icon ranks among the elite in terms of first-touch proficiency, a testament to his versatility and mastery of the game.

8. Diego Maradona

Most games played for: Napoli

Diego Maradona, with his unparalleled mastery of the ball, showcased the essence of football's beauty through his goals, mesmerizing runs, and divine first touch. The Argentine maestro epitomized composure on the field, effortlessly bringing down the ball with his nimble footwork.

Watching Maradona juggle the ball was a spectacle in itself, captivating viewers with its seamless grace and precision. Revered as one of the greatest midfielders in football history, his control over the ball was unmatched, often followed by moments of brilliance that left spectators in awe. Maradona's first touch was not just a skill; it was a prelude to the extraordinary feats that he was capable of achieving on the pitch.

7. Mesut Ozil

Most games played for: Arsenal

Mesut Ozil, the elegant German playmaker, left an indelible mark during his time in the Premier League, captivating fans with his mesmerizing first touch. Often likened to a wizard on the field, Ozil's early performances for Arsenal hinted at the enchanting display of skill that was about to unfold in the English top flight.

From his debut days at Schalke 04 to his tenure at Arsenal and beyond, Ozil's wizardry with the ball was evident, leaving spectators in awe of his exceptional technique. His ability to control the ball with precision and finesse was a testament to his dedication to honing his skills, which reportedly included unconventional training methods like juggling with medicine balls. Indeed, Ozil's first touch was a spectacle to behold, showcasing the artistry and grace that defined his style of play throughout his career.

6. Neymar

Most games played for: Barcelona

Neymar's first touch is not just about technical proficiency; it's a display of audacious flair that sets him apart in the game. Renowned for his breathtaking skills and creativity, Neymar's ability to execute flawless first touches with flair and panache places him among the elite in the sport.

Watching Neymar's highlight reel is a mesmerizing experience, as he effortlessly controls the ball with precision and brings it close to his body in tight spaces. This skill is particularly valuable when launching rapid attacks alongside his teammates, making it challenging for defenders to dispossess him. Neymar's exceptional first touch is a testament to his unique blend of talent and creativity, leaving spectators in awe of his artistry on the field.

5. Zinedine Zidane

Most games played for: Real Madrid

Zinedine Zidane epitomized coolness, particularly when executing a right-footed first touch. Regarded as one of the greatest midfielders of all time, Zidane's mastery of ball control was unparalleled, often followed by extraordinary plays that left spectators in awe.

With Zidane, there was a sense of absolute trust in his ability to handle the ball, coupled with his exceptional on-field intelligence. Despite his imposing stature, he possessed the grace of a ballerina, a rare combination that set him apart from his peers. Zidane's skill and elegance on the field make him a true legend of the game, a player whose like may never be seen again.

4. Dimitar Berbatov

Most games played for: Bayer Leverkusen

Dimitar Berbatov may not have been renowned for his prolific goal-scoring, but his exceptional technique was a standout feature during his time at Bayer Leverkusen. It was in the Premier League, however, where his mastery of the long-ball approach truly shone, captivating audiences with his impeccable first touch.

The former Bulgarian international possessed one of the finest ball control abilities in the league, effortlessly bringing the ball under his command with precision and finesse. Berbatov's first touch seemed almost like a party trick, executed with an air of coolness and ease that few could match. To this day, aspiring players can learn from one of the best through his Instagram tutorials.

3. Lionel Messi

Most games played for: Barcelona

Lionel Messi's football repertoire is nothing short of extensive. From his mesmerizing dribbling skills to his composed finishing and precise passing, he excels in numerous aspects of the game. However, one aspect that often goes unnoticed is his remarkable ability to control the ball with ease and precision.

Messi's quick feet and effortless control of the football are nothing short of magical, and for those who closely follow his matches, this has become a familiar sight. It often appears as though the ball is glued to his feet, and images of Messi effortlessly evading multiple opponents paint a vivid picture of his exceptional ball control.

Teammates have always been able to trust the gifted Argentine to make something out of nothing, thanks to his delicate touch and impeccable control. Messi's mastery of the ball is a testament to his unparalleled skill and footballing genius.

2. Dennis Bergkamp

Most games played for: Arsenal

Dennis Bergkamp's talent for receiving a pass and controlling the ball under pressure earned him widespread acclaim as a footballing genius. His influence on Arsene Wenger's Arsenal and the Premier League as a whole is epitomized by his iconic goal against Newcastle United, where his exquisite touch left spectators in awe.

Despite often playing in the shadow of the pace and power of Thierry Henry, Bergkamp was the linchpin of Arsenal's success under Wenger. A key member of some of the club's greatest teams, his talent knew no bounds, with his impeccable first touch serving as a testament to his extraordinary skill and footballing prowess.

Dennis Bergkamp is the GOAT. 

This is why.

#OnThisDay in 2002... pic.twitter.com/XgOHmv8LKz

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) March 2, 2019

1. Ronaldinho

Most games played for: Barcelona

Ronaldinho's first touch transcends description; it's better experienced through the historical video below, a testament to its enduring impact. As you revisit it from your early days as a football fan, its impressiveness only grows with time.

In the video, the audacious Brazilian effortlessly controls the ball, repeatedly thumping it against the upright and receiving it flawlessly each time. It's a display of first-touch mastery at its finest, one that captivated audiences and broke the Internet upon its release. Ronaldinho's unique flair and boundless creativity embody the essence of football, making him a beloved figure in the sport's history. There will never be another player quite like Ronaldinho.

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