The 10 Best Left-Wingers in the World (2025)

August 25, 2025 Aksel Kryhlmand

The role of the left-winger has evolved dramatically. Once limited to hugging the touchline and swinging in crosses, today’s wide forwards are dynamic, unpredictable, and often their team’s most decisive players. From dribbling wizards to lethal finishers, FourFourTwo asked a panel of experts to rank the 10 best left-wingers in the world right now.

10. Antoine Semenyo – Bournemouth / Ghana

Initially signed as a hard-working option rather than a superstar, Semenyo has blossomed into Bournemouth’s standout performer under Andoni Iraola. Strong, direct, and two-footed, he bullies defenders and drives his team forward with relentless energy. His consistency has made him one of the Premier League’s most underrated wide threats.

9. Anthony Gordon – Newcastle United / England

Once mocked at Everton, Gordon has transformed into one of the league’s most effective attackers at Newcastle. Quick, direct, and fearless, he thrives alongside Alexander Isak as part of Eddie Howe’s dynamic frontline. With double figures in both goals and assists, his rise has also put him in contention for a bigger England role.

8. Cody Gakpo – Liverpool / Netherlands

Signed from PSV, Gakpo was originally used as a false nine before cementing his role on the left flank. Intelligent in his movement and always finding space, he consistently delivers goals and assists. Not flashy, but incredibly reliable, Gakpo embodies the modern, well-rounded wide forward.

7. Nico Williams – Athletic Club / Spain

At just 22, Williams is already one of La Liga’s most exciting attackers. Unpredictable, two-footed, and lightning fast, he torments defenders whether staying wide or cutting inside. Alongside Lamine Yamal, he looks set to form a dynasty on Spain’s wings for years to come.

6. Rafael Leão – AC Milan / Portugal

Leão’s raw talent is undeniable – powerful, tricky, and capable of dismantling defenses on his own. While Milan endured a poor season, he remains their biggest weapon, drawing defenders wide before creating space with his signature dribbles. If he can add more consistency, he has the tools to be unstoppable.

5. Luis Díaz – Liverpool / Colombia

Since arriving from Porto, Díaz has become one of Liverpool’s most important players. Fierce, hard-working, and brilliant in one-on-one situations, he combines flair with an intensity reminiscent of Carlos Tevez. With over 25 goal contributions last season, he is now among the most feared wingers in the Premier League.

4. Bradley Barcola – Paris Saint-Germain / France

A product of Lyon’s academy, Barcola has taken his game to another level since joining PSG. Skillful, fast, and increasingly clinical, he has become a Champions League winner at just 22. Under Luis Enrique, he looks set to develop into one of Europe’s next superstar wingers.

3. Vinícius Júnior – Real Madrid / Brazil

Already a superstar at 24, Vinícius remains Real Madrid’s most electric attacker even after Mbappé’s arrival. Lightning quick and devastating in one-on-one duels, he combines Brazilian flair with ruthless productivity. With nearly 40 goal involvements this season, he continues to shine as one of the world’s very best.

2. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia – Paris Saint-Germain / Georgia

Nicknamed “Kvaradona,” the Georgian winger has become PSG’s creative spark since arriving from Napoli. One of the best dribblers in the world, he glides past defenders with either foot and constantly draws fouls. Dynamic, unpredictable, and fearless, he is now both a winger and a goal threat through the middle.

1. Raphinha – Barcelona / Brazil

The Brazilian has elevated his game to a new level in 2025, leading Barça’s attack with 46 goal involvements in 45 games. Left-footed and intelligent, he balances width and cutting inside, adapting perfectly to Hansi Flick’s system. Once doubted, Raphinha has silenced critics to become the best left-winger in the world.