Top 20 Best Wingers in the World (2025)

Football has evolved significantly over the years, and so too has the role of the winger. Traditionally, wide players were expected to beat their markers and whip crosses into the box for a centre-forward to finish. However, modern wingers have developed into diverse attacking threats; some operate as inside forwards, others as goal-scoring outlets, while many are crucial to pressing and defensive structures.

This ranking considers a combination of goal contributions, creative output, overall influence, success at club and international level, and individual brilliance in key moments.

Note: To be included in this ranking, a player must be listed as either a ‘Right Winger’ or ‘Left Winger’ as his primary position and must have played at least 15 matches in that role. This means players like Kylian Mbappé, Cole Palmer, and Phil Foden; who are categorised as a centre-forward and attacking midfielders, respectively—are not considered.

10. Rodrygo (Real Madrid/Brazil)

Rodrygo’s raw skill and clutch moments in the Champions League have earned him recognition, though consistency remains an issue. He’s often shuffled around the front line, which frustrates him. Despite scoring fewer goals lately, his talent is unquestioned. He wants to settle into a left-wing role but must wait to see how new coach Xabi Alonso plans to use him. Madrid’s president prefers to keep him, but a move could suit everyone, with Premier League interest looming.

9. Nico Williams (Athletic Club/Spain)

Quick, tricky, and eager, Nico Williams is a rising star who’s made a name in Bilbao and on the international stage. He helped Spain at Euro 2024 and ended Athletic’s 40-year trophy drought. Able to play both wings, his skill set is catching eyes across Europe. Although his form dipped early this season, he’s found his rhythm again. Big clubs like Barcelona, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Bayern are all tracking him, with a transfer likely soon.

8. Lionel Messi (Inter Miami/Argentina)

Messi remains a global icon, blending legendary status with ongoing influence. He leads Inter Miami’s scoring and recently captained Argentina to Copa América glory. While his pace has slowed, his vision and leadership still shine. With his Inter Miami contract ending soon, speculation about his next steps grows. Argentina’s coach isn’t rushing him on World Cup plans, as Messi weighs retirement versus another run.

7. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (PSG/Georgia)

Kvaratskhelia’s arrival at PSG sparked a remarkable turnaround. His flair and unpredictability make him a nightmare for defenders. Since joining mid-season from Napoli, he’s become central to PSG’s success, including their Champions League win. At just 24, he’s poised to become one of football’s biggest names, with Georgia aiming for World Cup qualification and PSG targeting more trophies.

6. Bukayo Saka (Arsenal/England)

Saka is Arsenal’s talisman, known for creativity, speed, and resilience. Despite setbacks like injury and a painful Euro 2020 penalty miss, he’s bounced back stronger. He’s among the Premier League’s top chance creators and key to Arsenal’s attack, especially on set pieces. Contract talks are underway, with Arsenal keen to secure his future amid rising wages.

5. Ousmane Dembélé (PSG/France)

Dembélé’s resurgence in 2025 has been nothing short of spectacular. Now playing more centrally, he’s racking up goals and assists at a remarkable rate, turning into PSG’s go-to man post-Mbappé and Neymar. His confidence and finishing have matured, making him a top Ballon d’Or contender. The big question: can he sustain or even improve this stellar form next season?

4. Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid/Brazil)

Vinícius remains one of football’s brightest talents, though this season has seen ups and downs after a breakthrough year. When firing, he’s devastating, especially notable in a Champions League hat trick versus Dortmund. His partnership with Mbappé is evolving, but more consistency is needed. With a new manager incoming, Vinícius aims to regain his peak form and extend his contract.

3. Raphinha (Barcelona/Brazil)

Raphinha’s electric pace and deadly left foot have lifted him to career-best heights. After nearly leaving Barcelona, a fresh start under coach Hansi Flick has seen him explode with goals and assists, breaking club records and delivering in key matches. Tireless and relentless, he’s now a serious Ballon d’Or contender as both Barcelona and Brazil count on him for success.

2. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona/Spain)

Yamal is a teenage phenomenon, dazzling with fearless dribbling and creativity. His confidence is sky-high, regularly taking charge in pressure moments. He led Barça’s young squad and helped Spain to Euro success, drawing comparisons to the game’s all-time greats. At just 17, his trajectory points toward major individual awards and trophies, including Champions League and World Cup glory.

1. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool/Egypt)

Salah has been unstoppable this season, driving Liverpool to their 20th league title with his brilliant mix of goals and assists. He’s broken records with 47 goal contributions in a single Premier League campaign, more than anyone else in a 38-game season. Beyond the numbers, his leadership and determination stood out, especially after Liverpool’s previous season disappointment. Salah isn’t just a scorer; he’s a team player who elevates everyone around him. As he puts it, this is his best year because he’s helped his teammates shine too.