Here are our picks for the most intelligent footballers across different positions.
Football intelligence is a term mostly used to describe midfielders with great game-reading skills. However, in today’s game, intelligence transcends positions, and it can be found in various roles on the pitch.
Let’s check out some of the smartest footballers in the world.
10- Manuel Neuer
Starting our list at number 10 is Manuel Neuer, who redefined the position with his innovative sweeper-keeper style. Neuer’s exceptional reading of the game allows him to act as a sweeper and also provide his Germany and Bayern Munich teammates with crucial progressive passes.
9- Bruno Fernandes
Fernandes’ football intelligence is evident in his exceptional playmaking abilities and an eye for goal. The Portuguese star’s ability to unlock defences and orchestrate attacks has made him an indispensable part of Manchester United’s squad.
8- Kylian Mbappe
Kylian Mbappe’s football IQ is as extraordinary as his lightning pace. The French sensation, who plays for Paris Saint-Germain, possesses an uncanny ability to exploit opposition weaknesses and create scoring opportunities, all while making it seem effortless.
7- Trent Alexander-Arnold
Alexander-Arnold’s intelligence on the field is palpable through his precise passes, tactical awareness, and set-piece prowess. The England international’s ability to deliver inch-perfect crosses and make critical defensive interventions make him a complete right-back.
6- Erling Haaland
Haaland’s footballing intelligence isn’t just about scoring goals but also about positioning, movement, and clever passes inside the box. The Manchester City star’s instincts in front of goal are second to none, making him one of the smartest forwards in the game.
5- Joshua Kimmich
Kimmich developed into one of the best midfielders in the game during Pep Guardiola’s spell at Bayern Munich. Kimmich’s incredible tactical intelligence has allowed him to shine in a variety of roles for Bayern and Germany.
4- Mohamed Salah
Salah’s intelligence in exploiting defensive weaknesses and his ability to read the game make him a nightmare for opposing defenders. Salah’s ability to exploit defensive gaps, anticipate goalkeeper movements, and time his runs perfectly is second to none.
3- Jude Bellingham
Despite his young age, Bellingham has already established his place among the world’s best midfielders. During his spell at Borussia Dortmund, Bellingham turned into a versatile midfielder who often played in a box-to-box role. However, a move to Real Madrid has allowed the English midfielder to showcase his incredible goalscoring prowess and instincts in front of goal.
2- Kevin De Bruyne
Manchester City’s midfield maestro is widely regarded as one of the smartest midfielders in European football. De Bruyne’s perfect vision, decision-making, and ability to control the tempo of a game are unparalleled. The Belgium international has been the main force behind City’s well-oiled midfield line in recent years, implanting Pep Guardiola’s tactics on the pitch.
1- Lionel Messi
Messi tops our list of the smartest active footballers. The Argentine icon is certainly among the most intelligent footballers to have ever played the beautiful game. Messi’s ball control, dribbling skills, and ability to navigate through tight spaces allow him to easily adapt his game and outsmart opposition defenders.
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