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The world’s best right-wingers form an elite group of some of the most skilled footballers on the planet.

Ranking the finest right-wingers globally is arguably the toughest challenge when evaluating any position on the field.

For years, one Argentine icon dominated such lists, but as Lionel Messi approaches the twilight of his legendary career, a new generation of stars is ready to inherit his throne. Nearly every top club in world football now boasts a world-class player in this role.

So, who makes the cut for the top 20?

FourFourTwo assembled a panel of respected experts from across the football industry to identify the best in each position, assessing players based on current form, historical significance, and technical excellence.

Each panelist scored wingers from 10 down to one, while additional data from Europe’s top five leagues — including Expected Assists per 90 (xA per 90), through balls, and shot-creating actions — was incorporated to produce the final rankings.

In certain cases, players who occasionally feature on the opposite flank were also considered, though our top-ranked right-winger won convincingly, with four others closely following behind.

Alongside this, separate rankings were created for other positions — centre-forwards, goalkeepers, defenders (right-backs, centre-backs, left-backs), and midfielders (defensive, central, attacking) — each with its dedicated list.

Arsenal have long sought reliable cover for Bukayo Saka, and in Noni Madueke, they may have found the closest equivalent within English football. Mature both in and out of possession, Madueke can stretch play wide or cut inside to devastating effect, earning trust from managers like Mikel Arteta and Thomas Tuchel.

At just 23, he finally seems settled after a turbulent early career, and the Emirates Stadium could soon witness the very best of his abilities.

Jarrod Bowen’s arrival at West Ham United transformed the team’s fortunes. Initially underestimated when he joined from Hull City, his performances quickly pulled the Hammers away from danger.

Since then, Bowen has become the model signing for West Ham, proving that the club thrives when recruiting ambitious, hardworking talents rather than fading superstars.

Riccardo Orsolini’s influence at Bologna cannot be overstated. A consistent match-winner, the Italian winger combines pace, skill, and clinical finishing. He’s hit double digits for Serie A goals in three consecutive seasons and is on course for a fourth, helping the Rossoblu secure a return to European competition.

Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche earned his first senior France cap in the 2025/26 season despite fierce competition in his position. Over the last two-and-a-half years, he has established himself as one of Ligue 1’s most creative outlets, excelling at threading passes into dangerous areas.

Iliman Ndiaye has become one of the Premier League’s most entertaining players. The Everton winger, full of energy and flair, dazzles with pace and trickery. The Senegalese star’s relentless style has made him a fan favourite under David Moyes.

Paris midfielder Ilan Kebbal’s rise has been remarkable. Since joining in 2022, initially on loan from Reims, he’s become one of Ligue 1’s most creative playmakers. In PFC’s first top-flight season in nearly five decades, Kebbal ranked among Europe’s best for key passes and through balls, and his performances earned him a call-up for Algeria.

At Real Madrid, Xabi Alonso has shown immense faith in young Franco Mastantuono, preferring him over seasoned professionals. The teenager, known for his South American resilience, is already making waves at the Bernabeu and could one day inherit Lionel Messi’s number for Argentina.

Japanese international Takefusa Kubo’s journey has been unconventional. From Kawasaki Frontale’s youth setup to Barcelona’s La Masia, then back to Japan, and finally to Real Madrid, where multiple loan spells molded him into a dynamic, fearless winger. Now starring for Real Sociedad, Kubo’s intensity and creativity have made him one of the most sought-after players in Europe.

Portuguese winger Pedro Neto remains one of the Premier League’s most underrated performers. After spells at Wolverhampton Wanderers and Chelsea, his directness and dribbling prowess continue to pose problems for defenders. Despite calls for more goals, his consistency makes him invaluable for any side.

Christian Pulisic, the face of American football, has delivered across Borussia Dortmund, Chelsea, and AC Milan. Now 27, he’s nearing 100 international appearances for the USMNT and continues to thrive as a creative, goal-scoring midfielder despite the immense pressure of expectation.

Inaki Williams, much like his younger brother Nico, is a nightmare for defenders. The Ghanaian speedster’s pace and skill make him an ever-present threat. With 471 appearances and 111 goals for Athletic Club, Williams embodies loyalty and legacy, rejecting lucrative moves abroad to remain a symbol of Basque pride.

Bryan Mbeumo’s transition from Brentford to Manchester United has been seamless. The Cameroonian forward injects pace, strength, and determination into every attack, becoming a vital part of Ruben Amorim’s system at Old Trafford.

And yes, Lionel Messi still features. Even in the latter stages of his career, the Argentine legend continues to redefine greatness. His exploits with Inter Miami prove that his influence remains unmatched, and another World Cup triumph may not be beyond him.

Tottenham Hotspur’s inconsistencies have not overshadowed the brilliance of Mohammed Kudus. The Ghanaian’s tactical versatility allows him to adapt to various roles, and under Thomas Frank, his explosive drives upfield have been crucial for Spurs.

Rodrygo, long linked with a Real Madrid exit, remains integral to the club’s identity. A master of tight spaces and big moments, the Brazilian’s creativity and finishing make him indispensable. Despite competition, he continues to shine under Xabi Alonso and could flourish even further elsewhere.

After his standout Champions League final performance rated 10/10, Desire Doue’s reputation soared. The Paris Saint-Germain prodigy combines flair and discipline, pressing effectively while dazzling fans with creativity reminiscent of Neymar and Ronaldinho. His rise to stardom at the Parc des Princes marks him as one of the brightest talents in world football.

Michael Olise’s transformation since moving to Bayern Munich has been astonishing. Previously a mercurial talent at Crystal Palace, he’s now producing elite numbers in Germany. Occasionally deployed as a central playmaker by Vincent Kompany, Olise’s evolution makes him one of France’s most promising players ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Mohamed Salah’s Premier League legacy needs no introduction. Fourth on the all-time scoring chart, the Egyptian star has redefined the winger role, guiding Liverpool to glory through sheer determination and consistency. As his Anfield chapter nears its end, he now focuses on cementing his international legacy with Egypt in upcoming tournaments.

Despite Arsenal’s high-profile signings, Bukayo Saka remains their brightest gem. The Hale End graduate’s intelligence, versatility, and composure make him indispensable. Whether curling shots with his left or blasting with his right, Saka consistently makes the right choices — a rare quality that separates him from his peers.

Lamine Yamal, at just 18, has already become Barcelona’s and Spain’s standout player. The youngest Ballon d’Or nominee in history, Yamal’s creativity, pace, and finishing belie his age. Even in Barcelona’s Champions League exit to Inter Milan, he dazzled throughout, confirming his status as a once-in-a-generation talent destined to challenge Messi’s legacy.

Written by Ewan Gennery and Isaac Stacey Stronge, Freelance Writers.