Dead-Ball Masters: Unveiling the Best Free Kick Takers by Goals & Conversion Rate (Top 5 Leagues since 2006)

We made a list of the best free-kick takers in Europe’s top five leagues since August 2006. We looked at players who may have scored the most free-kicks and those who boast the highest conversion rate, with a minimum of 30 attempts seeing them qualify. 

Volume Kings: Most Direct Free Kick Goals Scored 

When it comes to consistently finding the net from set pieces over the long haul, these players lead the pack in sheer volume of goals scored. 

Lionel Messi leads the line in total goals scored, his ability to craft something special from a dead ball situation is often one few argue. Arguably the greatest footballer of all time is, at the very least, still seen as an artist with the teed-up ball at his feet. His contributions for Argentina at the 2022 FIFA World Cup was multi-faceted, but the countless number of goals scored from free-kicks doesn’t often get spoken about enough.

Not many can forget the incredible goals he scored against Portsmouth and Arsenal in the iconic red of Manchester United, but he repeated those moments of absolute bliss in Spain, Italy and now Saudi-Arabia. 

Given that he isn’t given the respect he deserves in these conversations, James Ward-Prowse is just one free-kick goal behind David Beckham (at the time of writing).

Efficiency Experts: Best Free Kick Conversion Rate 

While scoring many is impressive, converting chances at the highest rate showcases supreme accuracy and clinical finishing. Here are the players with the best conversion percentages (minimum 30 attempts). 

Dusan Vlahovic stands out at the top of the list with a conversion rate of 16.67%. His efficiency is particularly impressive, highlighting his unique technique and finding a positive outcome with very little attempts in comparison to others. 

Phillippe Coutinho and Diego are the other two names who stand out given their unique approach to taking free-kicks. Students of finesse and control, often showing the value of placement over power have endeared them to football fans around the world. 

Comparing Volume vs. Efficiency (Analysis)

Interestingly, you will find that when comparing these two free-kick metrics – total goals scored and conversion rate – you will find there is no overlap in the top five of either list. There are two arguments which can be made from this observation. While the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo take hundreds of free-kicks over their long career, their conversion percentages are not as high. 

However, in taking hundreds of free-kicks, they would have been exposed to free-kicks which present a whole host of unique challenges. Tighter angles, longer distances and high-pressure moments would have all contributed as variables which do not allow for higher conversion rates. 

Then again, could you argue that Dusan Vlahovic and Diego are able to deliver better results without as many opportunities? Ward-Prowse possibly needs a greater respect in these conversations though. He ranks in both total goals and efficiency with an impressive conversion rate. Is he possibly one of the most complete free-kick takers in recent years?

Conclusion

Nevertheless, the idea of a ‘best’ free-kick taker largely depends on the metric used. Lionel Messi dominates for total goals scored from free-kick situations, while players like Vlahovic show the highest efficiency per shot (based on the data above). So, how do you decide who is the best?

It all comes down to the metrics you choose to use. It is incredibly important to establish a context and then to compare players against the backdrop of this context before engaging in these sorts of arguments. But all the while – be sure to appreciate their unbelievable talent.