Football has evolved over the years, and wingers are no longer just speedy dribblers delivering crosses. Modern-day wide players have diverse roles—they can be goal-scorers, playmakers, high pressers, or inside forwards. This versatility has made the game more exciting, especially in elite leagues like the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League.
So, who are the best wingers in world football right now? We’ve ranked the top 15 based on key performance factors such as goals, assists, trophy success, and their importance to their teams.
Ranking Factors:
- Goals – How many goals have they scored in the last 12 months?
- Assists – How many goals have they created?
- Trophies & Success – Have they won major silverware?
- Notable Performances – Have they produced game-changing moments?
- Team Importance – How crucial are they to their club’s success?
Top 15 Best Wingers in the World 2025 (Ranked)
| Rank | Player | Nation | Club |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mohamed Salah | Egypt | Liverpool |
| 2 | Vinicius Jr | Brazil | Real Madrid |
| 3 | Bukayo Saka | England | Arsenal |
| 4 | Cole Palmer | England | Chelsea |
| 5 | Raphinha | Brazil | Barcelona |
| 6 | Lamine Yamal | Spain | Barcelona |
| 7 | Ousmane Dembele | France | PSG |
| 8 | Michael Olise | France | Bayern Munich |
| 9 | Rodrygo | Brazil | Real Madrid |
| 10 | Khvicha Kvaratskhelia | Georgia | PSG |
| 11 | Phil Foden | England | Manchester City |
| 12 | Luis Diaz | Colombia | Liverpool |
| 13 | Son Heung-min | South Korea | Tottenham |
| 14 | Rafael Leao | Portugal | AC Milan |
| 15 | Nico Williams | Spain | Athletic Club |
The 15 Best Wingers in World Football
1. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
A legend at Liverpool, Mohamed Salah remains one of the most lethal wide players in football. His incredible goal-scoring ability has made him a two-time Golden Boot winner and the club’s all-time top Premier League scorer. Now thriving under Arne Slot, Salah continues to be a dominant force in England and Europe.
2. Vinicius Jr (Real Madrid)
When Real Madrid invested £38 million in a young Vinicius Jr, many doubted the move. Fast forward, and he is now one of the best wingers in the world. With his electric pace and dribbling, he was key in Madrid’s latest Champions League triumph and finished second in the 2024 Ballon d’Or rankings.
3. Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)
Arsenal’s star boy, Bukayo Saka, is a complete winger—combining flair, creativity, and goal-scoring instinct. He played a key role in Arsenal’s Premier League title challenge, recording 13 assists so far this season. An unfortunate injury sidelined him, showing just how vital he is to Mikel Arteta’s team.
4. Cole Palmer (Chelsea)
Leaving Manchester City for Chelsea was a bold move, but it’s paying off. Palmer has been Chelsea’s standout player, delivering 33 goal contributions in his debut season. His vision and finishing ability earned him a spot in England’s Euro 2024 squad, and he’s continued his fine form this season.
5. Raphinha (Barcelona)
The Brazilian winger has rediscovered his best form at Barcelona. His stunning free-kick at Copa America 2024 reminded fans of his technical brilliance. He’s already bagged 42 goal contributions this season, proving his value as one of Europe’s top wide players.
6. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
At just 17, Lamine Yamal is being hailed as the heir to Lionel Messi’s throne. His incredible performances at Euro 2024, where he recorded the most assists, cemented his reputation as one of the most exciting young talents in football.
7. Ousmane Dembélé (PSG)
With Kylian Mbappé gone, Ousmane Dembélé has stepped up as PSG’s key attacker. He has been in phenomenal form, registering 32 goal contributions so far. His dribbling and creativity have been instrumental in PSG’s domestic dominance.
8. Michael Olise (Bayern Munich)
After an outstanding season at Crystal Palace, Michael Olise secured a move to Bayern Munich. He has adapted seamlessly to life in Germany, already delivering 26 goal contributions.
9. Rodrygo (Real Madrid)
Often overshadowed by Vinicius Jr, Rodrygo is a top-tier winger in his own right. With over 200 Real Madrid appearances, multiple Champions League titles, and La Liga trophies, the 23-year-old is only getting better.
10. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (PSG)
After lighting up Serie A with Napoli, Kvaratskhelia moved to PSG and immediately impressed. His dribbling and goal-scoring ability have made him one of Europe’s most feared wingers.
11. Phil Foden (Manchester City)
Not a traditional winger, but Phil Foden’s ability to cut inside and create magic makes him one of the best wide players in the world. He was named the Premier League Player of the Year last season and remains a key figure for Pep Guardiola.
12. Luis Díaz (Liverpool)
Under Arne Slot, Luis Díaz has been Liverpool’s most improved player. His speed, trickery, and eye for goal have made him a nightmare for defenders this season.
13. Son Heung-min (Tottenham Hotspur)
A lethal finisher, Son has adapted to playing centrally but remains a devastating winger. The top Asian goal-scorer in Premier League history continues to deliver elite performances for Spurs.
14. Rafael Leão (AC Milan)
Milan’s star winger, Leão, is one of the best dribblers in the world. His pace and goal-scoring ability have kept Milan competitive in Serie A and the Champions League.
15. Nico Williams (Athletic Club)
Nico Williams was instrumental in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph, even scoring in the final. His speed and dribbling make him a hot prospect for Europe’s biggest clubs.
Conclusion
From Mohamed Salah’s legendary consistency to rising stars like Lamine Yamal and Michael Olise, modern wingers are redefining the game. Whether in the Premier League or the UEFA Champions League, these players are lighting up the biggest stages and shaping football’s future.
