Ranking the Top 20 Right-Wingers in World Football

Right-wingers hold a special place in football, combining skill, speed, and tactical intelligence to influence matches at the highest level. As Lionel Messi’s era fades, new stars emerge, each bringing unique qualities to this pivotal position. This list ranks the best right-wingers today based on current performance, historical impact, and technical skill.

How the Ranking Was Made

A panel of football experts assessed players by awarding scores from 10 down to 1. They also considered key stats from Europe’s top five leagues, including Expected Assists per 90 minutes (xA per 90), through balls, and shot-creating actions. Some judgment calls were necessary for players who switch flanks, but the top spot was clear with close competition behind it.

The Full List

• 20. Noni Madueke: Arsenal’s promising backup to Bukayo Saka. At 23, Madueke shows maturity and an ability to both hold width and cut inside effectively, gaining trust from managers like Arteta and Tuchel.
• 19. Jarrod Bowen: Since joining West Ham, Bowen has been vital in their fight against relegation and represents the club’s preference for emerging talents over big-name signings.
• 18. Riccardo Orsolini: A key figure in Bologna’s attack, Orsolini is known for clutch goalscoring, having hit double-digit Serie A goals for three straight seasons.
• 17. Maghnes Akliouche: The Monaco winger broke into France’s national team early in the 2025/26 season. His creative passing and ball-carrying make him one of Ligue 1’s top offensive threats.
• 16. Iliman Ndiaye: Perhaps the Premier League’s most entertaining player. The Senegalese winger is dynamic, fast, and full of flair, offering unpredictability for Everton.
• 15. Ilan Kebbal: Since joining Paris, Kebbal’s creativity and goal contributions have surged. He’s among the top players for key passes and through balls in Europe’s top leagues.
• 14. Franco Mastantuono: A young talent trusted by Xabi Alonso at Real Madrid despite limited European experience. Mastantuono displays resilience and potential to follow in Messi’s footsteps for Argentina.
• 13. Takefusa Kubo: Now at Real Sociedad, Kubo combines dribbling and creativity. Despite his size, he presses intensely and has become Japan’s leading football star, attracting Premier League interest.
• 12. Pedro Neto: A consistent threat in the Premier League with Wolves and Chelsea. Known for directness and pace, Neto has challenged many defenders over six years in England.
• 11. Christian Pulisic: The USMNT star has proven himself at Borussia Dortmund, Chelsea, and Milan. Approaching 100 international caps, Pulisic remains a lethal attacking midfielder.
• 10. Inaki Williams: The Athletic Club legend blends blistering speed and skill. With 471 appearances and 111 goals, Williams embodies loyalty and fierce competitiveness.
• 9. Bryan Mbeumo: Manchester United’s energetic attacker who brought his power and speed from Brentford, quickly becoming a dangerous forward in Europe.
• 8. Lionel Messi: Even as he nears retirement, Messi continues to perform at an extraordinary level. His recent success with Inter Miami and two World Cup titles show no signs of slowing.
• 7. Mohammed Kudus: Spurs’ most effective attacker this season. Versatile and hardworking, Kudus adapts well to different tactical demands and drives his team forward.
• 6. Rodrygo: Integral to Real Madrid’s setup, Rodrygo shines in tight spaces and big games. His blend of creativity and efficiency marks him as one of the most exciting wingers globally.
• 5. Desire Doue: Known for dazzling skills reminiscent of Neymar and Ronaldinho, Doue also impresses with his pressing and discipline. A key figure in Paris Saint-Germain’s rise.
• 4. Michael Olise: At Crystal Palace and now Bayern Munich, Olise’s effortless style and growing output put him among the world’s finest right-wingers. He occasionally plays centrally, dictating play.
• 3. Mohamed Salah: Beyond his remarkable scoring and speed, Salah changed how wingers are viewed in the Premier League. He led Liverpool to a title with a historic season and seeks international glory with Egypt.
• 2. Bukayo Saka: Arsenal’s standout player, Saka combines intelligence, precision, and technique. His decision-making and two signature finishes set him apart from others.
• 1. Lamine Yamal: At only 18, Yamal is already Barcelona’s and Spain’s brightest star. Unstoppable in pace and creativity, he looks ready to challenge Messi’s legacy as one of football’s greats.