Top 20 Right-Wingers in World Football

Identifying the best right-wingers is a challenging task, considering the position demands skill, creativity, and consistent impact. As Lionel Messi's era winds down, numerous stars from elite clubs are eager to step into the spotlight on the right flank.

How the Ranking Was Determined

FourFourTwo gathered a panel of experts from the football world to evaluate players based on their current performance, historical influence, and technical skills. Each expert assigned scores from 10 to 1, combined with data like Expected Assists per 90 minutes, through balls, and shot-creating actions across Europe's top five leagues. This blend of analysis shaped the final list.

Some players traditionally playing on the left were considered but ultimately placed elsewhere. The clear leader stood out well above the rest, while four others closely followed behind.

The Full List

20. Noni Madueke: Arsenal’s promising backup to Bukayo Saka at just 23, known for maturity on and off the ball, capable of both holding width and cutting inside effectively.
19. Jarrod Bowen: Transformed West Ham United after joining from Hull City, embodying hard work and development rather than star shopping.
18. Riccardo Orsolini: Bologna’s reliable outside forward who consistently scores clutch goals, reaching double digits in Serie A goals across three straight seasons.
17. Maghnes Akliouche: Monaco’s creative force and French international who excels at carrying and passing the ball where it counts.
16. Iliman Ndiaye: Everton’s dynamic winger known for pace, flair, and entertainment value, making him one of the Premier League’s most watchable players.
15. Ilan Kebbal: Paris Saint-Germain midfielder bringing creativity and direct impact, ranking among Europe’s leaders in key passes and through balls.
14. Franco Mastantuono: Xabi Alonso’s trust in this young Real Madrid talent highlights his resilience and potential to become a national team mainstay.
13. Takefusa Kubo: At Real Sociedad, Kubo combines dribbling, intensity, and toughness, making him Japan’s standout player and a coveted transfer target.
12. Pedro Neto: Portuguese winger who has been a constant threat in the Premier League, challenging defenders over six seasons with Wolves and Chelsea.
11. Christian Pulisic: The American star known for delivering in top European clubs like Borussia Dortmund, Chelsea, and AC Milan, nearing 100 international caps.
10. Inaki Williams: Athletic Club legend famed for speed and trickery, deeply connected to his community and family’s inspiring journey.
9. Bryan Mbeumo: Manchester United’s energetic attacker, bringing power and pace that fuels his team’s transition play.
8. Lionel Messi: Even in his later years, the GOAT continues to produce extraordinary moments, recently shining with Inter Miami and defying age.
7. Mohammed Kudus: Tottenham Hotspur’s versatile Ghanaian attacker who adapts his style to the team’s needs, showing sheer determination.
6. Rodrygo: Integral to Real Madrid’s success, known for big-game performances and a mix of creativity and clinical finishing.
5. Desire Doue: PSG’s young entertainer, reminiscent of Neymar and Ronaldinho, blending dazzling skill with disciplined pressing.
4. Michael Olise: Progressed from Crystal Palace to Bayern Munich, impressing with deftness and growing influence, now expected to start for France in the 2026 World Cup.
3. Mohamed Salah: Liverpool’s prolific right-winger, fourth in Premier League all-time scorers, who almost singlehandedly clinched the league title last season.
2. Bukayo Saka: Arsenal’s intelligent and composed winger, known for precise decision-making and exceptional finishing with both feet.
1. Lamine Yamal: Barcelona’s 18-year-old prodigy, already a club and country star with unmatched creativity, pace, and versatility on the wing, poised to challenge Messi’s legacy.