In the high-intensity world of the Premier League, ball distribution is a crucial aspect of every team’s tactical identity. While short passes and intricate build-up play often grab the spotlight, the ability to execute successful long passes can be just as influential. These long-range distributions can bypass multiple lines of pressure, stretch defenses, and create direct goal-scoring opportunities. The 2024–25 Premier League season saw several players dominate this department, with goalkeepers and defenders standing out as key contributors. Below, we highlight the top 10 players with the most successful long passes this season.
10.David Raya
David Raya contributed 171 successful long passes for Arsenal, reinforcing the club’s reliance on ball-playing keepers. Whether starting cup games or rotating with Ramsdale, Raya maintained composure and precision in his long balls. His passes regularly switched play or launched wide attacks from the back. Raya’s distribution offered Arsenal tactical fluidity in possession-based matches. Despite fewer appearances, his numbers reflect elite long-passing quality.
9.Dean Henderson
Dean Henderson quietly had a strong season with Crystal Palace, registering 173 successful long passes. His accurate distribution provided Palace with a direct outlet when under pressure. Henderson often picked out midfielders and forwards to help break down organized defenses. His long-ball consistency was a key part of Palace’s counter-attacking style. This performance underlined his growth as a reliable Premier League goalkeeper.
8. Kepa
Kepa recorded 175 successful long passes for Arsenal despite rotating with Aaron Ramsdale. His ability to accurately deliver the ball over long distances helped Arsenal maintain control under pressure. Kepa’s calmness in possession allowed Arsenal to reset or push forward from deep. His performance reflected the growing expectation for goalkeepers to play with their feet. Though not a regular starter, he left a mark in terms of successful long passes.
7. Bart Verbruggen
Bart Verbruggen played a key role in Brighton’s progressive build-up style, delivering 189 successful long passes. The young Dutch goalkeeper often bypassed the first line of press with precise long balls. His range helped Brighton switch quickly from defense to attack. Verbruggen’s distribution stood out for its accuracy and timing. His growth this season signaled a bright future for long-passing keepers in the Premier League.
Also Read: Top 10 Most Assists in Premier League 2024–25 Season
6. Emiliano Martínez
Martínez completed 202 successful long passes during a strong season with Aston Villa. His long-range accuracy provided a direct outlet to forwards and wingers under pressure. Villa benefited from his ability to launch quick transitions from the back. As a World Cup winner, Martínez combined composure and confidence with technical precision. He remained a key figure in Villa’s tactical setup through his consistent long passes.
5. Joachim Andersen
Joachim Andersen was the only outfield player to make this list with 207 successful long passes. As a center-back, he frequently switched play and opened up wide spaces for Fulham. Andersen’s ability to play from deep gave Fulham more control over transitions. His vision allowed the team to stretch opponents across the pitch. This distribution quality set him apart from many Premier League defenders.
4. Aaron Ramsdale
Ramsdale made 225 successful long passes, underlining his status as one of the league’s best ball-playing goalkeepers. His kicking accuracy helped Arsenal bypass high pressing lines. Ramsdale often initiated attacks with pinpoint long passes to wide areas. His technique suited Arsenal’s possession-oriented style with the option for direct progression. His consistent distribution from deep added another layer to the Gunners’ build-up.
3. Matz Sels
Matz Sels finished fifth with 259 successful long passes for Nottingham Forest. The Belgian keeper helped relieve pressure by launching well-placed balls into advanced areas. His long passes were crucial in setting up counter-attacks against stronger sides. Sels’ composure allowed Forest to escape pressing traps and regain momentum. His contribution with long distribution made him an underrated asset this season.
2. Mark Flekken
Mark Flekken delivered 338 successful long passes during his debut Premier League campaign. The Brentford goalkeeper’s ability to switch play with long balls was a huge tactical advantage. His distribution added directness to Brentford’s play when needed. Flekken’s experience in the Dutch league translated well to England’s fast tempo. He quickly became one of the most effective long passers in the league.
1. Jordan Pickford
Leading the list, Pickford registered 363 successful long passes for Everton this season. His precise long-range kicking helped Everton transition quickly and bypass pressing lines. Pickford often found wide players or the target man with powerful balls from deep. His technique and timing made him the most successful long passer in the Premier League 2024–25. He proved vital not just in goal but in shaping Everton’s overall play.
| Rank | Player | Club | Country | Successful Long Passes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jordan Pickford | Everton | England | 363 |
| 2 | Mark Flekken | Brentford | Netherlands | 338 |
| 3 | Matz Sels | Nottingham Forest | Belgium | 259 |
| 4 | Aaron Ramsdale | Arsenal | England | 225 |
| 5 | Joachim Andersen | Fulham | Denmark | 207 |
| 6 | Emiliano Martínez | Aston Villa | Argentina | 202 |
| 7 | Bart Verbruggen | Brighton & Hove Albion | Netherlands | 189 |
| 8 | Kepa Arrizabalaga | Arsenal | Spain | 175 |
| 9 | Dean Henderson | Crystal Palace | England | 173 |
| 10 | David Raya | Arsenal | Spain | 171 |
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Q1: Who had the most successful long passes in the Premier League 2024–25?
Jordan Pickford topped the list with 363 successful long passes for Everton, making him the most effective long-ball distributor of the season.
Q2: Which outfield player had the most successful long passes in 2024–25?
Joachim Andersen of Fulham was the only outfield player in the top 10, completing 207 successful long passes from the backline.
Q3: Which club had the most players in the top 10 for successful long passes?
Arsenal had two goalkeepers—Aaron Ramsdale and Kepa—ranked among the top 10 players with the most successful long passes.
Q4: Are goalkeepers usually the leaders in successful long passes?
Yes, goalkeepers often top the list as they regularly distribute long balls under pressure to initiate attacks or relieve the defense.