Who is Best in the World over 5 metres?
- aaronptighe
- Sep 28, 2025
- 3 min read
Jeremy Doku is the best player in the world in the first five metres, he’s unstoppable.
When you hear this level of praise from the legendary Pep Guardiola, who has worked with Messi, Iniesta, and the world's great players, you have to sit up, listen, and watch.
Reviewing this video reel of his immense talent is a joy. Jeremy Doku Destroying Everyone..
As an out-and-out winger, right-footed, playing on the left, he keeps things very simple, like all great wingers over time.
Coaching Tips:
Watch the video clip for these key techniques when faced by the defender:
Right inside foot tap-tap of the ball down the line. Watch how, with chest facing the defender, he slows the defender almost to a standstill, dragging them in closer, and then, with a burst of pace, instead of tapping the ball, he pushes the ball fast down the line, twisting forward into a sprint that takes him away from the defender.
Right foot outside laces tap-tap — this time he's running slowly straight at the defender, once again drawing them in, and then, as soon as he feels the defender stop or move a foot to tackle, he flicks the ball with his outside foot to his right and past the defender's left shoulder.
These two consistent skills are devastating and very hard to stop. He can go both sides of the defender with ease, power, and electrifying speed over that five metres.
Also look out for the clever shield of the ball with the sole of his right boot. When he feels the defender come around his left side, he rolls the ball backwards and twists his body away from the defender, following the ball super quick, leaving the defender dead in the water.
From Antwerp streets to the Etihad: Doku’s journey
Early roots and youth football
Jérémy Baffour Doku was born in 2002 in Antwerp, Belgium. He played for youth sides including KVC Olympic Deurne and Tubantia Borgerhout. By age nine or so, he was with Beerschot in Belgium. Then, in 2012, at about age ten, he joined the famed Anderlecht youth academy.
At Anderlecht, his progress was rapid. He made his professional debut for the senior side aged 16, making him one of the youngest to feature for Anderlecht’s first team. Over two seasons with the senior Anderlecht side, Doku made 34 league appearances and scored 5 goals.
Rennes: stepping up to Ligue 1
In 2020, a new chapter began. Doku moved to Stade Rennais (Rennes) in France’s Ligue 1. During his time in Rennes, he continued to develop, combining flair, dribbling, and learning consistency. Over about three seasons, he made 75 appearances and scored 10 goals.
To Manchester City: arriving in England
In August 2023, Doku made the big move: Manchester City signed him on a five-year deal (to 2028). The fee was reported at around €65 million. He made his City debut on 2 September 2023. That season, he helped City capture the 2023–24 Premier League title.
One2Pro:
The use of video with a coach review is fantastic for honing skills and performance. In our One2Pro online coaching app, "Techniques of the Stars" are broken down step-by-step for players to follow and practice.
Download and subscribe to work with your One2Pro coach on all 92 skills.
Be the One!
Aaron Tighe
Founder, One2Pro
*What It Takes. Available on major retailers in hardcopy, eBook and audio.
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