The 20 Best Right-Wingers in the World Ranked

Right-wingers hold a special place in football, often combining flair, speed, and creativity. With Lionel Messi stepping back from his peak, new stars are rising to claim their spot among the best. Here is a detailed list of the top 20 right-wingers, chosen by experts based on current form, historical impact, and technical skill.

How the Rankings Were Decided

A panel of industry experts evaluated players, scoring them from 10 down to 1. Alongside expert opinions, statistics from Europe's top five leagues—such as Expected Assists per 90 minutes, through balls, and shot-creating actions—were analyzed. Some judgment was involved for players who sometimes operate on the opposite wing, but the final list reflects the purest right-wing talent available.

Top 20 List

20. Noni Madueke: Arsenal’s young talent has matured quickly, impressing managers like Mikel Arteta and Thomas Tuchel. At 23, he’s poised to showcase his best performances at the Emirates.
19. Jarrod Bowen: Since joining West Ham, Bowen's work rate and progression have made him a crucial figure, proving the club’s strategy to focus on emerging players pays off.
18. Riccardo Orsolini: The Bologna forward is a clutch scorer, consistently hitting double-digit goals across Serie A seasons and helping his team reach European competition.
17. Maghnes Akliouche: Monaco’s creative force and French international, Akliouche stands out with his ability to carry the ball and pick precise passes in key areas.
16. Iliman Ndiaye: Known for his dynamic and entertaining style, the Senegalese winger electrifies the Premier League with pace and flair for Everton.
15. Ilan Kebbal: Paris FC’s creative midfielder has become an influential player, ranking highly in key passes and through balls across Europe’s elite leagues.
14. Franco Mastantuono: Trusted by Xabi Alonso at Real Madrid despite limited European experience, this South American prospect shows promise as a future star.
13. Takefusa Kubo: The Japanese attacker blends dribbling skills with tenacity, impressing in La Liga and attracting interest from the Premier League.
12. Pedro Neto: A consistent threat in England’s top flight, Neto’s directness and unpredictability have challenged defenders for years at Wolves and Chelsea.
11. Christian Pulisic: The American has delivered for Borussia Dortmund, Chelsea, and Milan, reaching nearly 100 caps for the US national team with his lethal attacking presence.
10. Inaki Williams: Athletic Club’s legend combines speed and skill, making him a nightmare for full-backs while showing loyalty to his Basque club despite other offers.
9. Bryan Mbeumo: After moving to Manchester United, Mbeumo continues to impress with power and pace, driving his side forward with relentless energy.
8. Lionel Messi: Even in his later years, Messi remains unparalleled. His recent success with Inter Miami proves his enduring quality and unmatched influence on the pitch.
7. Mohammed Kudus: Spurs’ adaptable attacker brings versatility and drive, playing a vital role despite the team’s inconsistency this season.
6. Rodrygo: Real Madrid’s Brazilian is a big-game player whose creativity and threat in tight spaces make him one of the most exciting wingers globally.
5. Desire Doue: PSG’s young star combines flair reminiscent of Neymar and Ronaldinho with discipline and pressing ability, earning recognition beyond just his dazzling skills.
4. Michael Olise: From Crystal Palace to Bayern Munich, Olise has evolved into a world-class attacking talent, also featuring as France’s promising playmaker.
3. Mohamed Salah: Salah’s incredible scoring record and consistency have transformed perceptions of wingers, playing a pivotal role in Liverpool’s recent success.
2. Bukayo Saka: Arsenal’s intelligent and versatile winger stands out for his decision-making and balanced skill set, combining precision finishes with composed passing.
1. Lamine Yamal: At only 18, Barcelona’s prodigy has already shown the qualities of a generational talent. Fast, creative, and fearless, he looks set to challenge legends like Messi for the top spot.