Stories and facts

Black Stars midfielder Mohammed Kudus has made history as the first player in Europe's top five leagues to complete over 100 dribbles in the 2023-2024 season.

The 23-year-old West Ham United star has become a standout figure among Europe's top-rated young players. According to Planet Football, Kudus has completed 103 dribbles, outpacing all players in the German Bundesliga, French Ligue 1, English Premier League, Italian Serie A, and Spanish La Liga.

Kudus' exceptional dribbling skills were notably showcased in a Europa League round of 16 match against SC Freiburg. In a remarkable display, he dribbled past three players after picking up the ball inside West Ham’s half, ultimately scoring with his weaker right foot into the right side of the goal. This goal was one of five he scored in nine Europa League appearances this season, underscoring his significant impact on the field.

In his debut Premier League campaign, Kudus has also been prolific, scoring seven goals and providing five assists in 30 league games. His impressive dribbling ability has seen him complete the most dribbles of any player in the Premier League this season, with 66 dribbles, surpassing Manchester City's Jeremy Doku, who has completed 61 dribbles. Wolverhampton Wanderers' Matheus Cunha (52 dribbles), Luton Town’s Chiedozie Ogbene (50 dribbles), and Ross Barkley (48 dribbles) round out the top five.

Kudus joined West Ham from Ajax last summer for around €45 million, making him the Hammers’ record signing. Despite predominantly playing as a right winger, the former Nordsjaelland playmaker has contributed nine goals and three assists in all competitions this season.

Kudus remains optimistic about West Ham's potential to succeed in both domestic and European competitions. Reflecting on the team’s ambitions, he stated, "We are in Europe now and want to make an impact as we won it last year, while we also want to challenge the top six teams in the league. Yes, 100% [we can win the UEFA Europa League]. We won the UEFA Europa Conference League last year, so we have the same mentality and approach for every single game. It’s very possible."

Kudus' performances have not only cemented his reputation as a top dribbler but also highlighted his crucial role in West Ham's successes this season. As he continues to shine, both fans and analysts will be keenly watching his next moves on the pitch.

Explore the life of Mohammed Kudus below.