Stamford Bridge has been home to some of the most amazing Chelsea dribblers who have entertained and wowed fans over the years.
From weaving through defenders with jaw-dropping ease to producing moments of magic that leave entire stadiums in awe, these players have etched their names into Chelsea folklore.
Here, we celebrate the top 10 Chelsea dribblers of all time, reflecting on their contributions and the unforgettable moments they created.
Top 10 Chelsea Dribblers of All Time
1. Eden Hazard (2012–2019)
When Eden Hazard joined Chelsea in the summer of 2012 from Lille, he was already touted as one of the most promising young talents in Europe.
Over his seven years at Stamford Bridge, Hazard not only fulfilled those expectations but far surpassed them. His low center of gravity and incredible ball control made him almost impossible to dispossess.
During his time at Chelsea, Hazard made 352 appearances, scored 110 goals, and assisted 92 times, becoming one of the club’s most decorated players. His dribbling was a mix of artistry and effectiveness, often leading to goals or key moments in big games.
Key Moment: Hazard’s stunning solo goal against Arsenal in 2017 highlighted his balance and creativity, leaving several defenders on the floor before slotting the ball past Petr Čech.
Hazard departed in 2019 for Real Madrid, cementing his legacy as one of Chelsea’s greatest-ever players.
2. Arjen Robben (2004–2007)
Arjen Robben arrived at Chelsea in 2004 from PSV Eindhoven as part of José Mourinho’s squad overhaul. Despite battling injuries, Robben’s time at Stamford Bridge showcased his electrifying dribbling ability. Known for his quick bursts of pace and signature move of cutting inside to unleash a powerful left-footed shot, Robben made an immediate impact.
He played 106 games for Chelsea, scoring 19 goals and assisting 22 times. Robben’s dribbling wasn’t just flashy—it was direct and decisive, often breaking down stubborn defenses in crucial matches.
Key Moment: Robben’s incredible display against Barcelona in the 2005 Champions League demonstrated his fearless dribbling against Europe’s best.
Robben left Chelsea for Real Madrid in 2007, later becoming a global star at Bayern Munich.
3. Joe Cole (2003–2010)
Signed from West Ham United in 2003, Joe Cole was a creative genius who thrived under José Mourinho’s guidance. Initially seen as a flair player with inconsistent performances, Cole refined his game at Chelsea, balancing his dribbling artistry with tactical discipline.
During his seven-year spell, Cole won three Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and one League Cup, making 281 appearances and scoring 40 goals. His close control and ability to maneuver in tight spaces made him a joy to watch.
Key Moment: Cole’s brilliant solo goal against Manchester United in 2006, where he beat three defenders before finding the net, symbolized his transformation into a world-class player.
He left Chelsea in 2010 for Liverpool, leaving behind memories of sheer brilliance.
4. Gianfranco Zola (1996–2003)
Chelsea fans often regard Gianfranco Zola as the club’s greatest-ever player. and one of the best Chelsea dribblers. The diminutive Italian joined Chelsea from Parma in 1996 and quickly became the heartbeat of the team. His extraordinary dribbling, combined with his creativity and free-kick mastery, made him a constant threat.
Zola made 312 appearances, scored 80 goals, and assisted 25 times during his seven-year stint. He played a pivotal role in Chelsea’s resurgence in the late 1990s, helping the club win two FA Cups, a League Cup, and a UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup.
Key Moment: Zola’s dazzling solo goal against Norwich City in the FA Cup, where he dribbled past defenders with ease, remains iconic.
Zola left Chelsea in 2003, leaving an indelible mark on the club’s history.
5. Willian (2013–2020)
Signed from Anzhi Makhachkala in 2013, Willian brought pace, creativity, and versatility to Chelsea’s attack. Known for his quick changes of direction and explosive acceleration, Willian could take on defenders with ease.
During his seven years at Chelsea, he made 339 appearances, scored 63 goals, and provided 62 assists. His ability to create something out of nothing made him a vital player in high-pressure situations, earning him two Premier League titles, an FA Cup, and a Europa League.
Key Moment: Willian’s dribbling masterclass against Barcelona in the 2018 Champions League showcased his ability to shine on the biggest stage.
Willian left Chelsea in 2020 to join Arsenal but remains a respected figure among Blues fans.
6. Damien Duff (2003–2006)
Damien Duff was one of José Mourinho’s first signings in 2003 and became a key player in Chelsea’s back-to-back Premier League titles in 2005 and 2006, while cementing his place as one of the club’s best dribblers. The Irish winger was known for his direct dribbling, blistering pace, and incredible work ethic.
Duff made 125 appearances, scored 19 goals, and provided numerous assists during his three seasons at Stamford Bridge. His partnership with Arjen Robben on the wings terrorized defenses across Europe.
Key Moment: Duff’s solo run and goal against Blackburn Rovers in 2004 showcased his speed and dribbling precision.
He left Chelsea in 2006 for Newcastle United.
7. Salomon Kalou (2006–2012)
Signed from Feyenoord in 2006, Salomon Kalou was often underrated but played a crucial role in Chelsea’s successes during his six-year spell. His dribbling, combined with his versatility, allowed him to operate effectively in tight spaces.
Kalou made 254 appearances, scored 60 goals, and assisted 44 times. He was part of the historic squad that won the Champions League in 2012.
Key Moment: Kalou’s dribbling against Barcelona in the 2009 Champions League semifinal created a pivotal moment in Chelsea’s campaign.
He left Chelsea in 2012 for Lille, having won multiple trophies.
8. Juan Mata (2011–2014)
Juan Mata joined Chelsea in 2011 from Valencia and quickly became a fan favorite. His silky touch, vision, and dribbling ability made him one of the most creative players in Chelsea’s history. Mata won the Chelsea Player of the Year award twice in consecutive seasons (2012 and 2013).
He made 135 appearances, scored 33 goals, and provided 58 assists during his time at the club, winning the Champions League and Europa League.
Key Moment: Mata’s intricate dribbling and assist for Ramires in the 2012 Champions League final epitomized his class.
Mata departed for Manchester United in 2014.
9. Florent Malouda (2007–2013)
Florent Malouda was a vital player during Chelsea’s double-winning 2009/10 season. The Frenchman combined elegance and efficiency in his dribbling, often leaving defenders in his wake with clever touches and bursts of pace.
He made 229 appearances, scored 45 goals, and provided 44 assists. Malouda’s consistency on the left flank made him a reliable figure during his six-year stint.
Key Moment: Malouda’s dribbling against Wigan in the 8-0 win in 2010 was a highlight of his career.
He left Chelsea in 2013 after contributing to several major trophies.
10. Christian Pulisic (2019–Present)
Christian Pulisic joined Chelsea from Borussia Dortmund in 2019 and quickly made a name for himself as one of the best Chelsea dribblers in the Premier League. Known for his quick feet, sharp turns, and explosive speed, Pulisic has already delivered memorable moments.
Despite battling injuries, Pulisic has shown his ability to take on defenders and create chances in high-pressure games.
Key Moment: His solo goal against Manchester City in 2020, where he dribbled from his own half, cemented his status as a rising star.
Chelsea’s history of exceptional dribblers is a testament to the club’s tradition of flair and creativity. Each of these players brought something unique to Stamford Bridge, creating unforgettable moments for fans.
Who do you think stands out as the greatest among Chelsea dribblers? Are there any other names you’d add to the list? Join the conversation by sharing your thoughts in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!
