Top 25 Right Backs in World Soccer Ranked

The Evolution of the Right Back Role

The role of right back has undergone a transformation over time. Players now often move inside to midfield, blending defensive duties with playmaking responsibilities. This shift has made the position one of the most dynamic and crucial on the pitch.

Choosing the best 25 right backs in the world is no easy task, but here is a ranked list capturing the current elite.

25. Dani Carvajal

Dani Carvajal is a Real Madrid icon with six Champions League trophies and four La Liga titles. Despite debates on his impact, he earned the confidence of managers like Zidane and Ancelotti. His 2023–24 season was outstanding, scoring in the Champions League final and contributing to Spain's Euro 2024 triumph. An ACL injury interrupted what looks like his final chapter at Madrid, but many clubs would welcome his experience.

24. João Cancelo

João Cancelo dazzled with his ball skills but has seen his form dip in recent years. Known for his unpredictability, the Portugal international isn’t the strongest defender but excels in possession. After a journey through Manchester City, Bayern Munich, Barcelona, and a stint in Saudi Arabia, he surprisingly returned to Barcelona in early 2026.

23. Nahuel Molina

Argentine regular Nahuel Molina may not be flashy but is a consistent performer for both Atlético Madrid and Argentina. He’s won the World Cup and two Copa América titles, offering reliable attacking support even if club silverware has been scarce.

22. Diogo Dalot

Manchester United’s Diogo Dalot impresses with relentless energy and running down the right flank. Despite United’s ups and downs and surrounding challenges, his commitment stands out, making him tough for opponents to handle.

21. Ben White

Ben White surprised many after Arsenal paid around $69 million for him in 2021. His adaptability between right back and centre back, combined with solid performances, has justified that price. White improves those around him, boosting teammates like Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard, and might have made England’s World Cup squad were it not for injury.

20. Nordi Mukiele

At Sunderland, Nordi Mukiele has become a key figure after joining from Bayer Leverkusen for just £9.5 million. The former Paris Saint-Germain player offers defensive solidity, adventurous ball-carrying, and long throws, all while only being 28.

19. Ola Aina

Ola Aina found his footing after leaving Chelsea, thriving in Italy with Torino before returning to Nottingham Forest. The Nigerian international balances attack and defense effectively in the Premier League.

18. Julian Ryerson

Julian Ryerson specializes in set-pieces for Borussia Dortmund. His pinpoint deliveries helped Dortmund score frequently during the 2025–26 Bundesliga campaign, racking up 11 assists in 20 games—more than in his previous 202 appearances combined.

17. Conor Bradley

After an impressive loan at Bolton Wanderers, Northern Ireland’s Conor Bradley earned more game time at Liverpool as Trent Alexander-Arnold’s understudy. Injury management will be key for him to progress further.

16. Pedro Porro

Pedro Porro stands out for his precise distribution and occasional spectacular long-range goals for Tottenham Hotspur. His defensive game can be inconsistent, though improving that would elevate his status. Spurs’ coach Thomas Frank rates him highly.

15. Tino Livramento

Despite a serious knee injury during his Southampton days, Tino Livramento has bounced back strongly at Newcastle since 2023. He remains quick and versatile, performing well on either flank.

14. Zeki Çelik

Zeki Çelik struggled for minutes at Roma under Mourinho but found form as a wingback in Gasperini’s 3-5-2 system. Despite never playing in Turkey’s top league, he remains important for the national team and eyes a World Cup appearance.

13. Konrad Laimer

Originally a box-to-box midfielder, Konrad Laimer adapted to right back at Bayern Munich, contributing to their 2024–25 Bundesliga title. His stamina allows him to impact both ends of the pitch, even filling in at left back when needed.

12. Daniel Muñoz

A late bloomer, Daniel Muñoz impressed after moving from Colombia to Genk and then Crystal Palace. Known for overlapping runs and accurate passes, he played a key role in Palace’s 2024–25 FA Cup win and has become a fan favorite.

11. Marco Palestra

At 20, Marco Palestra rose quickly from youth obscurity to an Italian international and transfer target worth $60 million. His tireless runs and attacking prowess mark him as Inter’s potential successor to Denzel Dumfries.

10. Marcos Llorente

Marcos Llorente transitioned from midfielder to right back seamlessly at Atlético Madrid. His speed and tackling disrupt opposition attacks, and his awareness lets him contribute goals and assists regularly.

9. Matheus Nunes

Under Pep Guardiola, Matheus Nunes transformed from a struggling midfielder at Manchester City into a standout right back. His technical skill, positioning, and interceptions impressed so much that Guardiola suggested he could become one of the best in the role.

8. Jeremie Frimpong

Jeremie Frimpong, raised in England and once a Celtic fan favorite, excelled at Bayer Leverkusen before joining Liverpool in 2025. Although injuries have hampered his start, his talent is unquestioned.

7. Giovanni Di Lorenzo

Captain of Napoli’s 2024–25 Serie A-winning side, Giovanni Di Lorenzo is a dependable and tough defender. Italy benefits greatly from his steady presence at right back.

6. Trent Alexander-Arnold

Trent Alexander-Arnold changed expectations for defenders with his exceptional passing and creativity. Now at Real Madrid, injuries have slowed his impact but his talent shines through. Some remain skeptical, including England’s manager Thomas Tuchel, yet his influence is undeniable.

5. Denzel Dumfries

Denzel Dumfries may be the Netherlands’ finest right back. At Inter Milan, his speed, strength, and skill make him a devastating presence. He’s helped Inter reach two Champions League finals and win multiple domestic trophies.

4. Jules Koundé

Initially a central defender, Jules Koundé adapted to right back at Barcelona and France. He evolved into a reliable option, delivering standout performances and forming a potent partnership with teammate Lamine Yamal.

3. Reece James

Reece James boasts powerful crosses and striking ability, making him one of the most complete right backs. Despite injury setbacks, his recent improved fitness has allowed him to consistently showcase his talents for Chelsea.

2. Jurrien Timber

After recovering from an ACL tear, Jurrien Timber has become a dependable right back for Arsenal. His versatility across defense and growing attacking threat mark him as a rising star.

1. Achraf Hakimi

Achraf Hakimi thrived under Antonio Conte at Inter, helping win the 2020–21 Scudetto. At PSG, he combined blistering speed with sharp decision-making. Hakimi was key to PSG’s Champions League breakthrough in 2024–25 and led Morocco to the Africa Cup of Nations final in 2026. His blend of attack and defense keeps him at the pinnacle of right backs worldwide.