When looking at the best footballers in the world, you’d be forgiven for only seeing their differences. Take this list of the current top players in the world, not only does the list feature players from all over the world, but also different positions. These players have different playing styles and certain skills that set them above the pack. 

So, if you’re trying to model yourself on the world’s best, you need to focus on what they have in common – rather than their differences. This is why we’ve compiled this list of qualities that good footballers have in common. 

All good footballers have the following in common: 

Teamwork

When on the field, there are 10 other players working with you to achieve the same goal. The ability to work with your team and put them into space, provide passing options or work together in defence is crucial to success. The greatest players in the world are good in their own right, but they can’t achieve their peak without teamwork. Players who only look after their own interests will never have the same success as those who work as part of a team. 

Football Academies

All the greats attended football academies (like an Alicante football Academy) when they were younger. Academies provide the chance to learn new skills, experience a training camp environment, and test your skills against unknown opposition. They are also high-pressure environments where players learn to handle stress on the pitch. 

Confidence

All good footballers are confident. There is a fine line between confidence and arrogance – which is worth noting. Confidence is the self-assurance that comes from understanding your strengths and respecting your weaknesses. Arrogance is simply thinking you’re better than you are, an attitude that is never welcome in a team environment. Confidence allows players to approach high-pressure situations with a calm head. 

Growth Mindset

A good footballer never sees themselves as complete. They are always looking to learn and improve because they believe that they can always be better. Adopt the mindset that there is something you can learn from everyone – regardless of their level of experience. Adopting this mindset will help you to avoid getting complacent, something that will only get in the way of your success. 

Physique

It’s no secret, fitness is essential for any footballer. This includes the core principles of agility, balance, and coordination, as well as speed, stamina, flexibility, power, and strength. Fitness is something you will constantly need to work on, it doesn’t have a single benchmark. However, another core aspect overlooked by many players is recovery. This allows you to perform at your peak more frequently and avoid injury. 

If you can develop these qualities, you will share similar attributes to the best players in the world.