Best dribbler Ligue 1: Five reasons Moses Simon’s stats make him a strong challenger to Dembele

As the Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) introduced its new trophy for the best dribbler in Ligue 1, Moses Simon of FC Nantes has quickly emerged as one of the leading candidates. 

The Nigerian forward, known for his pace and technical ability, has consistently stood out as one of the most exciting players in France's top tier. 

Here are five key reasons Simon deserves to claim the prestigious award.

1. Dribbling Prowess and Volume

Moses Simon has been a dominant force in terms of dribbles attempted in Ligue 1 this season. 

With an average of 8.87 dribbles per 90 minutes, he leads the league in dribbles attempted, surpassing the likes of Paris Saint-Germain's Désiré Doué (8.74) and Ousmane Dembélé (7.66). 

Simon's high volume of attempts is a testament to his confidence and willingness to take on defenders, which is crucial for any player vying for the title of best dribbler.

2. Efficiency in Dribbling

While Simon’s high dribble attempt count is impressive, his efficiency in completing them is just as remarkable. 

With an average of 4.43 successful dribbles per match, Simon ranks among the best in the league. 

This showcases his ability not only to initiate attacking moves but also to consistently bypass defenders, making him a constant threat on the wing. 

His successful dribbles per match are only narrowly behind Doué, who averages 4.55.

3. Progressive Play and Ball Carrying

Simon’s dribbling is not just about individual flair; it’s also about advancing the play. His ability to carry the ball forward is a key component of his game, with 46.38% of his actions classified as "progressive" — the highest percentage among Ligue 1 wingers. 

This statistic demonstrates that Simon is not just dribbling for the sake of it; he’s actively pushing his team into dangerous areas of the field, which is crucial in a league as competitive as Ligue 1.

4. Dominance in One-on-One Duels

Simon’s effectiveness in one-on-one situations also stands out. He wins an average of 6.05 attacking duels per match, ranking him as the second-best winger in this category in the French top flight. 

His ability to consistently beat defenders in one-on-one situations further solidifies his case for the best dribbler award.

5. Consistency in Performance

Moses Simon has been the focal point of an often underperforming FC Nantes side, providing them with a spark in attack. 

His consistency throughout the season, both in terms of dribbling and overall contribution to the team, makes him a worthy contender for the title.

Adeyemi Adewale

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