Two-Footed Players in Modern Soccer: The Game-Changing Advantage

Two-footedness is a crucial factor in modern soccer. Players who can operate equally well with both feet are harder to predict, more flexible in their actions, and significantly more efficient in critical game situations. Whether in dribbling, passing, or finishing, the ability to use the appropriate foot in any given situation can make the difference between victory and defeat. 
1Harry Kane has shown that even as an experienced player, it is possible to train two-footed ball control in a targeted and effective way. (Photo: Marco Iacobucci Epp / Shutterstock.com)

Examples from Practice – Players with Outstanding Two-Footedness

Ousmane Dembélé

The French international is considered one of the most complete two-footed players of today. Both at FC Barcelona and in the French national team, he regularly proves his technical versatility: Dembélé can dribble, pass, and shoot with both feet equally well, making him very difficult for defenders to control.

Lionel Messi

Although Lionel Messi is known as a left-footed player, he has developed his right foot to an impressive level throughout his career. Many of his assists and crucial goals, such as his legendary strike against Bayern Munich in 2015, show that he can rely on both feet.

Harry Kane

The English captain is a prime example of targeted training. Kane systematically trained his weaker left foot with specific exercises in his youth. Today, he regularly scores goals with both feet, making him one of the most dangerous offensive weapons in world soccer.

Kevin De Bruyne

As the playmaker for Manchester City, Kevin De Bruyne is known for his exceptional two-footedness. Whether it’s precise crosses, long-range shots, or defense-splitting passes, De Bruyne uses both feet to create scoring opportunities for his teammates.

Andreas Brehme

A classic example: Brehme, the German World Cup winner of 1990, was notorious for his two-footed ability. The penalty that secured Germany’s title was taken with his right foot—but he could have just as confidently scored with his left.

Outstanding Two-Footed Player – Kevin De Bruyne (Photo: Maciej Rogowski Photo / Shutterstock.com)