15 Greatest Right-Wingers in Football History (Ranked)

October 6, 2025 Kris Isaksen

Right-wingers have long been the spark plugs of attacking football — providing speed, creativity, and goals from the flanks. From legends of the 1930s to modern-day icons, this gallery showcases the 15 best right-wingers ever to grace the pitch, ranked by their legacy, longevity, stats, and individual accolades. We start at the top — with the greatest of them all.

15. Roberto Donadoni – Milan's Understated Engine

Though better known in recent years for his managerial career, Roberto Donadoni was a vital part of AC Milan’s dominance in the 1990s. With his explosive pace and ability to play on both wings, he helped the club to six Serie A titles. His balance and technique made him one of Italy’s most underrated wide men.

14. Julinho – Fiorentina’s Fan Favourite

Julinho Botelho — By Unknown author - Estadio (Santiago: Zig-Zag) (516). 4 de abril de 1953., Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=160855566

Julinho dazzled fans with his fearless dribbling and thunderous shooting ability, particularly during his time with Palmeiras and Fiorentina. His creativity and versatility allowed him to play as both winger and playmaker, earning him legendary status in Serie A. In 1996, Fiorentina fans voted him their greatest-ever player.

13. Amancio – Real Madrid’s ‘Wizard’

Amancio Amaro — By Hans Peters for Anefo - http://proxy.handle.net/10648/ac292106-d0b4-102d-bcf8-003048976d84, CC0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=67567760

Known as “El Brujo,” Amancio was a key figure in Real Madrid's success during the 1960s and '70s. He twice won La Liga's top scorer award and earned a third-place finish in the 1964 Ballon d’Or. His 14-year stint at the club cemented him as a Los Blancos legend.

12. Angel Di Maria – The Crafty Creator

Ángel Di María — Maciej Rogowski Photo / Shutterstock.com

Angel Di Maria's magical left foot made him one of the most effective wide players of his era. He was instrumental in Real Madrid’s Champions League triumphs and played key roles at PSG, Benfica, and Argentina’s national team. His combination of assists and clutch goals makes him a standout in modern football.

11. Helmut Rahn – The German Sharpshooter

Helmut Rahn was a key player in West Germany’s 1954 World Cup-winning side, delivering goals with ruthless consistency. A runner-up in the 1958 Ballon d'Or, Rahn’s intelligence and goal-scoring instinct from the wing set him apart. He made history with Rot-Weiss Essen and left a lasting impact on the international stage.

10. Mohamed Salah – Liverpool’s Modern Legend

Nicknamed the “Egyptian King,” Salah rewrote Premier League history after returning to England with Liverpool. His pace, sharp dribbling, and eye for goal helped the Reds win their first league title in 30 years and a sixth Champions League. Still active, his legacy continues to grow.

9. Arjen Robben – The Left-Footed Menace

Everyone knew Robben’s trademark move — cut inside from the right onto his left foot — but few could stop it. He won league titles across four countries and scored the decisive goal in Bayern Munich’s 2013 Champions League final. A master of simplicity done to perfection.

8. David Beckham – Precision and Popularity

David Beckham's right foot became a brand of its own, bending in iconic free kicks and pinpoint crosses. He played a central role in Manchester United’s treble-winning season and expanded football’s global reach with his move to LA Galaxy. Few players have combined skill and fame like Beckham.

7. Luis Figo – The Elegant Galactico

Luis Figo’s seamless dribbling and world-class vision made him one of the most technically gifted players of his time. He won the Ballon d'Or in 2000 and was central to both Barcelona and Real Madrid’s success during the early 2000s. His controversial switch between rivals only added to his legendary status.

6. Gareth Bale – The Underrated Superstar

From Spurs to Real Madrid, Gareth Bale lit up world football with his raw speed and big-game heroics. He won five Champions League titles and scored some of the most iconic goals in the competition’s history, including a jaw-dropping overhead kick in the 2018 final. His impact remains hugely underrated.

5. Jimmy Johnstone – Celtic’s Magical Wingman

A national treasure in Scotland, “Jinky” Johnstone was a dribbling genius who led Celtic to European glory in 1967. He was fearless, unpredictable, and beloved by fans for his flair and loyalty. Posthumously, he remains one of the most celebrated players in Celtic and Scottish football history.

4. Stanley Matthews – The Eternal Winger

Sir Stanley Matthews played until the age of 50 and won the inaugural Ballon d'Or in 1956. His speed, control, and sportsmanship set the tone for generations to come. Known as “The Wizard of the Dribble,” Matthews was football’s first global superstar.

3. George Best – The Maverick Magician

George Best was pure electricity on the pitch — his dribbling, creativity, and scoring ability lit up Manchester United in the 1960s. He won the 1968 Ballon d'Or and helped United lift the European Cup that same year. His legacy lives far beyond football, cementing him as a cultural icon.

2. Garrincha – Brazil’s Unstoppable Force

Despite a physical condition that made him unique, Garrincha terrorized defenders with unpredictable footwork and balance. He was instrumental in Brazil's World Cup victories in 1958 and 1962, earning the Golden Ball in the latter. A mythical figure in world football, his story remains unforgettable.

1. Lionel Messi – The Greatest of All Time

No player has done more from the right wing than Lionel Messi. From his debut at Barcelona to lifting the World Cup with Argentina in 2022, Messi has shattered records and mesmerized fans with every touch. With 856 goals, 418 assists, and eight Ballon d'Ors, he is football’s ultimate right-winger.