The 15 Best Wingers in World Football, Ranked (2025 Edition)

September 8, 2025 Kris Isaksen

The modern winger is no longer just a touchline-hugging crosser — they’re creators, scorers, pressers, and playmakers rolled into one. From rising stars to seasoned legends, these 15 wide men have stood out for their impact, consistency, and brilliance over the past year. Here’s our countdown from 15 to 1.

15. Phil Foden – Manchester City

Often overshadowed by the likes of Haaland and De Bruyne, Phil Foden has quietly established himself as one of City’s most important attackers. His ability to drift wide, turn defenders, and strike from distance makes him a nightmare to defend against.

14. Bradley Barcola – Paris Saint-Germain

Barcola’s move from Lyon to PSG proved a masterstroke, as the 22-year-old stepped up in the wake of Kylian Mbappe’s exit. With sharp dribbling and quick decision-making, he's become a consistent threat down the flanks in Ligue 1.

13. Leroy Sane – Galatasaray

A familiar face to Premier League fans, Sane has refined his game since leaving Manchester City. Now starring for Galatasaray, the German winger remains a key player thanks to his blistering pace and improved end product.

12. Rafael Leao – AC Milan

Rafael Leão — Marco Iacobucci Epp / Shutterstock.com

Leao continues to shine at AC Milan, even during a turbulent year for the club. With 13 goals and 13 assists last season, his explosive speed and one-on-one ability remain his biggest weapons on the left flank.

11. Nico Williams – Athletic Club

After a stellar season and an impressive Euro 2024, Nico Williams has emerged as one of Spain’s brightest young stars. His Player of the Match performance in the final against England confirmed he’s ready for the world stage.

10. Rodrygo – Real Madrid

Rodrygo may play second fiddle to Vinicius Jr at times, but his agility and intelligence make him crucial to Real Madrid’s success. At just 24, he already has multiple major titles and continues to evolve into a complete forward.

9. Cole Palmer – Chelsea

Palmer has blossomed into a Premier League star since leaving Manchester City, racking up 33 goal contributions in his debut season with Chelsea. His creativity, vision, and calmness in front of goal earned him a Euro 2024 call-up and a Club World Cup medal.

8. Michael Olise – Bayern Munich

Olise took the Bundesliga by storm after joining Bayern Munich from Crystal Palace. His smooth dribbling and technical finesse have made him a fan favorite in Germany and one of Europe’s most watchable wide men.

7. Bukayo Saka – Arsenal

Even after missing part of the season through injury, Saka’s influence on Arsenal was undeniable. His consistent output, tireless work rate, and leadership from the right wing make him one of the Premier League’s most valuable players.

6. Vinicius Jr – Real Madrid

Vinicius Jr has developed into one of the most devastating wingers in world football. Whether cutting inside or setting up teammates, his pace and flair helped secure silverware and a second-place finish in the 2024 Ballon d’Or.

5. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia – Paris Saint-Germain

Kvaratskhelia has adapted seamlessly to life at PSG, showcasing his unique dribbling style and unpredictable movement. His Champions League performances were instrumental in the French giants' European triumph this season.

4. Raphinha – Barcelona

Raphinha has hit a new gear at Barcelona, shining with both club and country. His Copa America brilliance and a memorable hat-trick against Bayern have turned him into a real Ballon d’Or contender this year.

3. Lamine Yamal – Barcelona

Still only 18, Yamal is already a European champion and La Liga star. With unmatched composure and creativity for his age, he’s quickly becoming the face of Barcelona’s future and Spain’s next great hope.

2. Ousmane Dembele – Paris Saint-Germain

Dembele has reinvented himself since Mbappe’s departure, producing his most consistent season yet. With 39 goal contributions and a UCL title to his name, he’s finally delivering on the massive expectations placed on him years ago.

1. Mohamed Salah – Liverpool

Salah remains the gold standard for wingers worldwide. A record-breaking scorer, Champions League winner, and the heartbeat of Liverpool’s attack, the Egyptian king shows no signs of slowing down under new boss Arne Slot.