The current 5 top left footed players in world football

Before we look in to the current top left footed players in the world, we need to know what makes them special. There’s something about a left-footer. The grace, the balance, the poise on the ball. The cultured left foot as they call it. Perhaps it’s the rarity of the breed or something essential that eludes taxonomical assessment. From Diego Maradona to Gareth Bale, these players have lit up the eyes of football fans and have been ornaments that have adorned the beautiful game. The last few years have seen many more players join this club, whereas some of the more experienced veterans have continued to show their skill on the ball. There has been a greater acceptance for these players at the junior levels where they have not been shackled to left-wing or full back roles but have enjoyed central midfield and central defence positions as well.

In trying to compile a list that looks at some of the great left-footed players of our age, I have tried to keep into account personal success, their contribution to the success of their team, future potential as well as the aesthetic value that they add to the game.

Here is a list of my Top 5 left-footers.

1. Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi in action

South America has perhaps been the traditional home of the sparkling left-footer, from Diego Maradona to Rivaldo to Messi. Perhaps there was never any doubt about who would top this list. Lionel Messi’s success with Barcelona has established him as one of the greats of the game and perhaps the only stumbling block that remains in his path is the World Cup. The magician that he is with his left-foot is well documented. He can run through those little spaces as defenders pile on the tackles all around him and eventually find that chipped, curling or driven finish. He has a great deal of diversity to his game and that makes him a delight to watch.

2. Gareth Bale

Bale playing for Spurs

Another Welshman who is heavily dependent on his left foot. His long range shots have saved Tottenham’s blushes on many occasions in the recent past. He started from the traditional left-back position at Southampton and garnered fame for his skills in dead-ball situations. He added many aspects to his game and his speed has definitely made him a threat to defences world over. Moving inside from the left wing and accelerating to find a bit of space to get away the shot has become his characteristic move and with the pace that his left foot generates, not many goalkeepers have been able to keep the ball out of the net. Bale however has a lot to achieve still. He has not proved his mettle against top defences in the Champions League and hence he still has a lot to prove.

3. David Silva

David Silva

The Spaniard has built a loyal following for himself at Manchester City and played a key role in their historic victory in the Premier League last year. He has also been a part of the great Spanish juggernaut as they go on filling their trophy cabinet. He is another left-footer who has many comfort zones. He can play as a conventional winger or as a wide man in a front three formation. Lacking physicality, the diminutive figure is a delight to watch as he dribbles the ball around the pitch with his head up and going about engineering the forward move for his team. With his reliable touch and exquisite passing ability, he can unlock defenses and also fill in the gaps to get into scoring positions. With an abundance of talent all around him at Manchester City, he is bound to evolve into a better player as the years roll on.

4. Arjen Robben

Arjen Robben

The Dutchman finally broke the jinx of finals with his Champions League win this year. Robben’s ability in front of goal has often let him down but his on-the-ball control, his dribbling abilities and his ability to move inside to fire that odd shot on goal make him a very dangerous player. Robben is aesthetically very pleasing. His weaker right foot recently prompted a well circulated tweet that said, “Arjen Robben’s left foot value = 40 million. Arjen Robben’s right foot value = packet of crisps.”

5. Mesut Ozil

Mesut Ozil

Playing as a central midfield player for Real Madrid, Mesut Ozil has grabbed eyeballs at a very young age. He catapulted to stardom in the World Cup of 2010 when he helped Germany dismantle England in an encounter that finished 4-1. He was immediately a target for the Spanish giants and has since won a number of trophies as well. His amazing ball control, light touch, vision to match it and execution are qualities that make a great player. With an entire career ahead of him, he may climb this list rather rapidly.