Chidera Ejuke, the talented winger for the Super Eagles, has made a significant mark this season in LaLiga, emerging as the most successful dribbler within the league. The 26-year-old, who transitioned to Sevilla from CSKA Moscow as a free agent in the summer, has demonstrated impressive skills and determination on the pitch. As of the current 2024/25 LaLiga season, Ejuke has achieved a remarkable 61% success rate in his dribble attempts, completing 28 successful dribbles out of 46. This feat not only showcases his individual skill but also places him atop the leaderboard among notable dribblers in LaLiga, outshining renowned players such as Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior, and Kylian Mbappé.
The current statistics reveal that while Lamine Yamal has attempted the most dribbles in LaLiga with a total of 63, he trails Ejuke with a success rate of 43%. Vinícius Júnior has made 56 attempts, achieving only a 36% success rate, while Mbappé has 51 attempts with a 45% success rate. Completing the top five is Takefusa Kubo, who has attempted 43 dribbles with a 40% success rate. Ejuke’s ability to navigate through defenses with finesse has been instrumental in enhancing Sevilla’s attacking play, adding vitality and creativity to their offensive strategies. His rise as a skilled dribbler reinforces his reputation as a player who can influence the outcome of matches.
Ejuke’s dribbling talents have been a staple of his career since he showcased his skills at CSKA Moscow. His journey through professional football took off notably in November 2021, when he was recognized as the third-best dribbler globally by the CIES Football Observatory. This accolade was a testament to his knack for taking on defenders, marking him as one of the most exciting prospects in football, a recognition that began during his time in the Dutch Eredivisie back in 2019. Since joining Sevilla, he has made an immediate impact, demonstrating that he can replicate his successful techniques on a grand stage like LaLiga.
In just a short period at Sevilla, Ejuke has not only made notable contributions on the field but also garnered recognition from both fans and the club’s management. In September, he was honored as Sevilla’s Player of the Month, illustrating his positive influence in the squad during his initial league appearances. A highlight of his performance came on September 24, when his 85th-minute goal against Real Valladolid secured a 2-1 victory, a crucial match that, ultimately, helped under-pressure coach Francisco Pimienta receive a contract extension. His ability to deliver when it matters most has solidified his standing within the team.
Furthermore, Ejuke’s stellar performances have not gone unnoticed beyond LaLiga. In early October, he was recognized as the player with the highest number of successful dribbles among Europe’s top five leagues, having completed 23 successful dribbles, surpassing Lamine Yamal by one. Such consistent performances have notably piqued the interest of national team selectors. After a two-year absence from the Super Eagles, Ejuke’s proficiencies on the field led to his recall for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, where he was included in the 23-man squad compiled by Nigeria’s interim coach, Austin Eguavoen.
Regardless of his call-up, Ejuke’s participation was limited; he did not get the chance to play in the match hosted in Uyo, as the return leg in Libya was canceled due to team disputes. This situation highlights the unpredictability and challenges faced by players in international football. Nevertheless, Ejuke’s current form and performances in LaLiga undoubtedly enhance his prospects for future international appearances, as he continues to be a vital asset for both his club and country. His rise in football echoes a compelling narrative of talent, resilience, and the capacity to make an indelible impact on the pitch.
