THE BEST RIGHT WINGERS IN FOOTBALLL HISTORY


 The right-winger position has seen the best footballers in the world make their name in the sport. As football has evolved, wingers have adapted from the traditional role of providing crosses into the box and are tasked with being one of the leading creative outlets on the pitch.

With blistering speed, exceptional dribbling ability and clinical finishing, some of the biggest and most illustrious names to ever grace the pitch have made their name on the right flank. From the Champions League to the World Cup, right-wingers have featured prominently throughout the biggest successes in the elite competitions. Indeed, even in 2025, arguably the best player in the world, is Barcelona's Lamine Yamal, who despite his teenage years is operating as one of the greatest right-wingers in recent years.

That being said, below is a list of the 10 greatest right-wingers in football history. From players as far back as the 1930s to those still plying their trade, there are only a few standout names among those considered the best in the position.

Ranking Factors

  • Legacy - How they are remembered and their last impact on football.
  • Longevity - How long they played throughout their career at the highest level.
  • Statistics - The ability to consistently score and create goals is the standard on which a winger is judged upon.
  • Individual Honours - What they achieved during their career.

10 Greatest Right-Wingers in Football History

Rank

Player

Clubs

1.

Lionel Messi

Barcelona, PSG, Inter Miami

2.

Garrincha

Serrano, Botafogo, Corinthians, Flamengo

3.

George Best

Manchester United, Los Angeles Aztecs, Fulham, San Jose Earthquakes

4.

Stanley Matthews

Stoke City, Blackpool, Toronto City

5.

Jimmy Johnstone

Celtic, San Jose Earthquakes, Sheffield United, Dundee, Shelbourne, Elgin City

6.

Gareth Bale

Southampton, Tottenham, Real Madrid, LAFC

7.

Luis Figo

Sporting CP, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Inter Milan

8.

David Beckham

Manchester United, Preston North End, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, AC Milan, PSG

9.

Arjen Robben

Groningen, PSV, Chelsea, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich

10.

Mohamed Salah

Basel, Chelsea, Fiorentina, Roma, Liverpool


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