Ranking the Top 20 Right-Wingers in World Football

The role of the right-winger holds some of the most gifted footballers globally. With Lionel Messi's era winding down, a new wave of talents is emerging across top clubs. This list highlights the best 20 players currently excelling on the right flank.

How the Rankings Were Determined

FourFourTwo gathered a panel of experts who assessed players based on recent performance, historical impact, and technical skills. Each expert ranked wingers from 10 to 1, and the results were combined with key statistics like Expected Assists per 90, through balls, and shot-creating actions from Europe's top five leagues. Some players who predominantly operate on the opposite wing were evaluated carefully to maintain fairness.

Top 20 Right-Wingers

• 20. Noni Madueke: Arsenal’s young talent, 23 years old, showing maturity and versatility as a backup to Bukayo Saka.
• 19. Jarrod Bowen: Transformed West Ham United since joining, proving value by rising from smaller clubs.
• 18. Riccardo Orsolini: Bologna’s reliable outside forward known for clutch goals and consistent scoring in Serie A.
• 17. Maghnes Akliouche: French international at Monaco, recognized for creativity and ball progression in Ligue 1.
• 16. Iliman Ndiaye: Everton’s energetic winger, known for pace and flair, making him highly entertaining to watch.
• 15. Ilan Kebbal: Paris Saint-Germain’s creative force, notable for key passes and through balls in Europe’s top leagues.
• 14. Franco Mastantuono: Young Real Madrid player trusted by Xabi Alonso, showing resilience and potential.
• 13. Takefusa Kubo: Japan’s standout player at Real Sociedad, blending creativity with intensity and toughness.
• 12. Pedro Neto: Portuguese winger shining in the Premier League for Chelsea and Wolves with relentless attacking threat.
• 11. Christian Pulisic: The American star with consistent performances at Borussia Dortmund, Chelsea, and Milan.
• 10. Inaki Williams: Athletic Club legend known for speed and skill, deeply connected to his Basque roots.
• 9. Bryan Mbeumo: Manchester United’s powerful attacker bringing energy and speed since his move from Brentford.
• 8. Lionel Messi: Even near the end of his career, Messi remains unmatched in skill and influence on the pitch.
• 7. Mohammed Kudus: Spurs’ adaptable Ghanaian winger who excels in transition and various attacking roles.
• 6. Rodrygo: Real Madrid’s Brazilian who thrives in high-pressure games with creativity and devastating plays.
• 5. Desire Doue: Paris Saint-Germain’s young entertainer blending flair with work ethic, a rare combination today.
• 4. Michael Olise: Crystal Palace and Bayern Munich’s creative midfielder, moving toward a world-class status.
• 3. Mohamed Salah: Liverpool star whose mentality and scoring feats revolutionized the winger role in the Premier League.
• 2. Bukayo Saka: Arsenal’s intelligent and composed winger known for decisive passing and clinical finishing.
• 1. Lamine Yamal: The Barcelona prodigy at only 18, already dominating with speed, creativity, and maturity beyond his years.

A Closer Look at the Elite

At the very top, Lamine Yamal stands out as an unstoppable force, showing signs he could surpass even Lionel Messi's legacy. Meanwhile, Bukayo Saka combines intelligence with skill to make consistently smart decisions on the field. Veterans like Mohamed Salah and Lionel Messi still hold their ground among the best, while emerging stars such as Michael Olise and Desire Doue show promise for future dominance.

The rankings illustrate a blend of youth and experience, creativity and efficiency, all converging on the right wing. As the sport evolves, these players shape how the position is played worldwide.