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Great dribblers don’t just get past defenders – they make the ball look like an extension of their body. Lionel Messi and Phil Foden are masters of keeping the ball close to their feet, allowing them to change direction, accelerate, and stay in control even in the tightest spaces. What’s behind their technique, and how can any player learn it?
SHORT, FREQUENT TOUCHES WITH THE BALL
Messi and Foden don’t push the ball far ahead. Their dribbling consists of small touches with almost every step, keeping the ball within reach.
Exercise:
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Dribble over 10 meters, touching the ball at least 10 times on the distance.
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Keep the ball no further than half a meter from your foot.
USING INSIDE AND OUTSIDE OF THE FOOT
Both players seamlessly switch surfaces when controlling the ball.
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Inside of the foot – shields the ball and directs it toward the center of the pitch.
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Outside of the foot – perfect for sudden changes of direction and driving toward goal.
Exercise: Set up a slalom with cones and alternate inside/outside touches through it.
BODY LEAN AND BALANCE
Messi and Foden stay low on their legs, which gives stability and quick reactions. Their body balance makes it impossible for defenders to predict their next move.
Exercise: Dribble through cones while staying low with bent knees, shifting your shoulders as if making a feint.
TRAINING IN SMALL SPACES
They can keep the ball even in crowds of defenders thanks to practicing in tight spaces.
Exercise: Dribble inside a 3x3 m square, changing directions with every step. Add pressure by asking a teammate to lightly challenge you.
CHANGING TEMPO
Dribbling is not just about footwork – it’s also about tempo. Messi can slow down, then suddenly accelerate, leaving defenders behind.
Exercise: Dribble over 15 meters – go slow for the first 10 m, then explode with maximum speed for the final 5 m.
USING THE BODY TO PROTECT THE BALL
Messi often positions himself so the defender has to get through him before reaching the ball. He uses shoulders and hips as a natural shield.
Exercise: Dribble while a teammate tries to apply light pressure – focus on keeping your body between the ball and the opponent.
THE MINDSET OF A DRIBBLER
Above all, Messi and Foden play fearlessly. They don’t shy away from risk, knowing that every successful dribble creates an advantage for the whole team. To master close control like them, a player must train technique – but also trust themselves and make brave decisions without fear of losing the ball.
Conclusion
The secret to keeping the ball close isn’t magic – it’s daily repetition of short touches, body balance, tempo changes, and control in tight areas. Messi and Foden both started with basic drills, and years of practice made the ball their best friend. You can achieve the same – with consistency and courage.
