The 20 Best Right-Wingers in World Football Today

Choosing the best right-wingers worldwide is no easy task, given the abundance of exceptional talent. As Lionel Messi's era nears its end, a new generation of stars is emerging across top clubs, each making their mark on this crucial position.

How FourFourTwo Selected These Players

A panel of experts from FourFourTwo evaluated players based on current form, historical impact, and technical skill. They rated each winger from 10 to 1, factoring in stats like Expected Assists per 90 minutes, through balls, and shot-creating actions across Europe's elite leagues. Some players who predominantly play on the opposite wing were considered carefully for inclusion.

This list complements others on our site covering forwards, goalkeepers, defenders, and midfielders.

The Full Top 20 List

• 20. Noni Madueke: Arsenal’s promising backup to Bukayo Saka, known for his maturity, ability to hold width, and impactful cutting inside. At 23, he seems ready to flourish at the Emirates Stadium.
• 19. Jarrod Bowen: Since joining West Ham, Bowen has been key to their revival, proving that hard-working young talents can be more effective than established stars past their prime.
• 18. Riccardo Orsolini: Bologna’s standout attacker and clutch goalscorer, Orsolini has consistently hit double figures in Serie A goals, playing a major role in their European qualification.
• 17. Maghnes Akliouche: The Monaco forward broke into France’s senior team early in 2025/26, impressing with his creative passing and ball-carrying in Ligue 1.
• 16. Iliman Ndiaye: Known as one of the Premier League’s most exciting talents, Ndiaye electrifies Everton with pace, flair, and tricky dribbling from the right flank.
• 15. Ilan Kebbal: Paris FC’s creative force, Kebbal has excelled in key passes and through balls, earning his first Algeria cap and proving vital in Ligue 1.
• 14. Franco Mastantuono: Xabi Alonso’s trust in this young Real Madrid player signals big potential; Mastantuono blends resilience and South American flair while adapting well to life at the Bernabeu.
• 13. Takefusa Kubo: After spells at Barcelona’s academy and loans in La Liga, Kubo now shines at Real Sociedad. His relentless pressing and creativity make him a highly sought-after talent.
• 12. Pedro Neto: A consistent threat in the Premier League, Neto’s directness and attacking threat have troubled defenders for years at Wolves and Chelsea.
• 11. Christian Pulisic: The American has delivered for Borussia Dortmund, Chelsea, and Milan, combining lethal attacking skills with over 100 international caps by age 27.
• 10. Inaki Williams: A club legend at Athletic Club, Williams’ blistering pace and trickery make him a nightmare for defenders. His loyalty to San Mames runs deep.
• 9. Bryan Mbeumo: The Brentford star transitioned seamlessly to Manchester United, using power, movement, and speed to become one of Europe’s deadliest attackers.
• 8. Lionel Messi: Even as he ages, Messi remains unique and unstoppable. His recent success with Inter Miami shows his abilities are still world-class, with more triumphs possible.
• 7. Mohammed Kudus: Spurs’ most effective attacker this season, Kudus adapts his game fluidly, helping push his team forward with determination and versatility.
• 6. Rodrygo: The Brazilian is integral to Real Madrid’s attack, excelling in tight spaces and raising the performance of teammates, despite transfer speculation.
• 5. Desire Doue: An entertainer at PSG with flair inspired by Neymar and Ronaldinho, Doue combines dazzling skills with pressing discipline, making him a standout starlet.
• 4. Michael Olise: Having elevated his performance at Bayern Munich, Olise mixes effortless skill and increasing goal contributions, also featuring for France ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
• 3. Mohamed Salah: Salah redefined the winger role in the Premier League, ranking fourth all-time in goals from the right. With international titles still awaited, his legacy continues to grow.
• 2. Bukayo Saka: Arsenal’s brightest star, Saka impresses with intelligence, decision-making, and versatile finishing. Few use their talents as efficiently as he does.
• 1. Lamine Yamal: At just 18, Yamal is Barcelona’s and Spain’s leading light. His speed, creativity, and skill are already at an elite level, positioning him as a future legend possibly surpassing even Messi.