15 Best Wingers in World Football – Ranked

March 7, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

Wingers have always been some of the most electrifying players in football, captivating fans with their speed, skill, and attacking flair. In today’s game, wide players are more than just providers—they are goal scorers, playmakers, and often the difference-makers in the biggest matches. Whether it’s a dazzling dribbler who can beat multiple defenders or a clinical finisher cutting inside, the modern winger plays a crucial role in a team’s attacking success.

In this ranking, we break down the 15 best wingers in world football right now, based on their current form, consistency, and overall impact for their clubs. From rising stars to established superstars, these are the wide players making the biggest difference on the pitch.

15. Nico Williams

Nico Williams has emerged as one of Spain’s most dynamic attackers. His blistering pace and direct dribbling make him a constant threat down the left wing. He played a key role in Spain’s Euro 2024 victory and continues to be a standout performer in La Liga.

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14. Rafael Leão

Rafael Leão is one of the most devastating dribblers in Serie A. His explosive acceleration and ability to glide past defenders make him a nightmare to contain. While AC Milan has struggled at times, Leão remains a bright spot and a key attacking force.

13. Son Heung-min

Son Heung-min is among the most clinical finishers on this list. Whether cutting inside from the left or playing centrally, the Tottenham star is a constant goal threat. His versatility and consistency make him one of the Premier League’s best wingers.

12. Luis Díaz

Luis Díaz brings relentless energy and direct attacking play to Liverpool’s frontline. His pace, dribbling, and work rate make him a nightmare for defenders. He has improved his end product in front of goal this season, becoming even more dangerous.

11. Phil Foden

Phil Foden is not a traditional winger, but his ability to operate out wide while drifting inside makes him one of Manchester City’s most versatile threats. With his close control, intelligence, and finishing ability, he remains a vital part of Pep Guardiola’s system.

10. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia exploded onto the scene with Napoli’s 2022/23 title-winning season and has continued to impress. His flair, unpredictable dribbling, and goal-scoring ability make him a standout in Serie A. Now at PSG, he’s proving his quality at the highest level.

9. Rodrygo

Rodrygo often operates in the shadow of Vinícius Jr., but he is a crucial part of Real Madrid’s attack. His two-footed ability, intelligent movement, and knack for scoring in big moments have made him one of the most reliable wingers in Europe.

8. Cole Palmer

Cole Palmer’s rise at Chelsea has been remarkable. He has seamlessly stepped into a key attacking role, producing goals and assists at a high rate. His creativity and composure in front of goal have made him one of the Premier League’s best young wingers.

7. Bukayo Saka

Bukayo Saka has been Arsenal’s talisman, consistently delivering goals and assists from the right wing. His technical ability, work ethic, and maturity beyond his years make him one of the most complete wingers in world football. Injuries have slowed him down recently, but his impact remains undeniable.

6. Michael Olise

Michael Olise has taken his game to another level since moving to Bayern Munich. The French winger combines skill, vision, and a lethal left foot to devastating effect. He has quickly become a fan favorite in Germany and is proving to be a top-class talent.

5. Ousmane Dembélé

Ousmane Dembélé is finally fulfilling his potential at PSG. His dribbling ability, speed, and unpredictability make him one of the most exciting wingers to watch. With Kylian Mbappé’s departure, Dembélé has stepped up and become a key attacking force for the French champions.

4. Lamine Yamal

Lamine Yamal is a generational talent who has already made a huge impact at just 17 years old. His ability to beat defenders, deliver pinpoint passes, and score from distance has drawn comparisons to legends of the game. He was instrumental in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph and is only getting better.

3. Raphinha

Raphinha has been one of the most consistent wingers in Europe, delivering goals and assists at a high level. His free-kick ability, close control, and finishing make him a complete winger. His hat-trick against Bayern Munich showcased his immense quality.

2. Vinícius Jr.

Vinicius Jr. — Raffaele Conti 88 / Shutterstock.com

Vinícius Jr. has become one of the most feared attackers in the world. His pace, dribbling, and end product have taken Real Madrid to new heights. The Brazilian finished second in the 2024 Ballon d’Or rankings and continues to dominate La Liga and the Champions League.

1. Mohamed Salah

There is no winger more complete than Mohamed Salah. The Liverpool legend has been at the top of world football for years, consistently delivering goals and assists at an elite level. He is Liverpool’s all-time Premier League top scorer and continues to shine under Arne Slot. His impact, consistency, and ability to perform in big moments make him the best winger in the world right now.