The 20 Best Right-Wingers in World Football

Ranking the best right-wingers is no easy feat, given the sheer talent spread across leagues. Historically, an Argentine legend has dominated such lists, but as Lionel Messi nears the end of his career, a host of stars from top clubs are ready to step up.

How This Ranking Was Determined

A panel of football experts evaluated players based on recent form, historical impact, and technical skill. They assigned scores from 10 down to 1 for each winger on their list. These scores were combined with statistical data like Expected Assists per 90 minutes, through balls, and shot-creating actions from Europe's top five leagues to produce the final standings.

Some players who operate on the opposite wing were considered carefully, acknowledging overlaps with left-winger lists. Our number one right-winger stood out clearly ahead of a tight group behind him.

Full List of the 20 Best Right-Wingers

• 20. Noni Madueke: Arsenal’s potential backup to Bukayo Saka, Madueke is mature on the ball and impactful cutting inside or holding width. At just 23, he seems poised to thrive at the Emirates Stadium.
• 19. Jarrod Bowen: Since joining West Ham, Bowen has been a workhorse and key figure in lifting the club from relegation battles, showing value in signing promising talents.
• 18. Riccardo Orsolini: A clutch goal scorer for Bologna, Orsolini consistently reaches double-digit Serie A goals and drives their return to European football.
• 17. Maghnes Akliouche: The French international and Monaco regular stands out for creativity and ball progression in Ligue 1.
• 16. Iliman Ndiaye: Everton’s lively right winger brings flair, speed, and trickery, making him one of the most entertaining wingers to watch.
• 15. Ilan Kebbal: Paris Saint-Germain’s creative force, Kebbal boasts impressive key passes and through balls, adding goals and assists while representing Algeria internationally.
• 14. Franco Mastantuono: Young talent trusted by Xabi Alonso at Real Madrid, Mastantuono blends resilience with potential and is tipped as a future star for Spain and possibly Argentina.
• 13. Takefusa Kubo: The Japanese winger at Real Sociedad impresses with direct dribbling, intense pressing, and adaptability, gaining attention as a transfer target.
• 12. Pedro Neto: Portuguese winger Pedro Neto has been a consistent threat in the Premier League, challenging defenders regularly over six seasons.
• 11. Christian Pulisic: The American star has performed at Borussia Dortmund, Chelsea, and Milan, nearing 100 caps and proving to be a reliable attacking midfielder.
• 10. Inaki Williams: A club legend at Athletic Club, Williams combines pace and skill, defying defenders and embodying deep commitment to his team and community.
• 9. Bryan Mbeumo: Manchester United’s powerful and quick attacker from Cameroon has adapted quickly, becoming one of Europe’s most dangerous forwards.
• 8. Lionel Messi: Even late in his career, Messi remains unique. His recent successes with Inter Miami and enduring skill suggest he could continue playing at a high level for years.
• 7. Mohammed Kudus: Tottenham’s versatile Ghanaian attacker adapts well to tactical demands, contributing significantly to Spurs' offense.
• 6. Rodrygo: Integral to Real Madrid’s success, Rodrygo shines in crucial moments with creativity and precision, though transfer rumors persist.
• 5. Desire Doue: A dynamic PSG talent blending flair reminiscent of Neymar and Ronaldinho with discipline and pressing ability, Doue has delivered standout performances including a Champions League final display.
• 4. Michael Olise: Now at Bayern Munich, Olise has evolved into a world-class player, shifting between right wing and central attacking roles while influencing matches with creativity and goals.
• 3. Mohamed Salah: Liverpool’s prolific scorer has transformed winger expectations in the Premier League, achieving historic goal tallies and seeking international silverware with Egypt.
• 2. Bukayo Saka: Arsenal’s intelligent and composed winger excels at decision-making, combining technical skills with clever finishing and precise passing.
• 1. Lamine Yamal: The youngest Ballon d'Or nominee ever, 18-year-old Barcelona sensation Yamal displays unstoppable pace, creativity, and skill, already leading his club and country and potentially shaping the future of the position.