Ranking the Top 25 Right Backs in World Soccer

Once seen as one of the least exciting positions, the right back has transformed into a key role that demands both defensive solidity and attacking creativity. Players now not only patrol the flanks but often drift inside to add midfield support. This shift has produced a generation of right backs who are as dynamic as they are skilled.

25. Dani Carvajal

Dani Carvajal is a Real Madrid icon with an impressive haul of six Champions League titles and four La Liga crowns. His influence on Los Blancos' success under coaches like Zidane and Ancelotti is undeniable. Despite an ACL injury in 2024-25 curtailing his final Real Madrid season, Carvajal’s leadership and clutch performances remain highly respected.

24. João Cancelo

João Cancelo is known for his incredible ball skills and unpredictability. Though his defensive game has flaws, his attacking flair is exceptional. After reaching great heights at Manchester City and experiencing loan spells at Bayern and Barcelona, he made a surprising return to Barcelona in early 2026 following a stint in Saudi Arabia.

23. Nahuel Molina

Nahuel Molina might not dazzle with flash, but his reliability earned him regular call-ups for Argentina. A World Cup and two Copa América wins underline his international pedigree. At Atlético Madrid, he contributes steadily even if club silverware has been limited.

22. Diogo Dalot

Diogo Dalot brings tireless effort and endurance to Manchester United. Though inconsistent due to team struggles and off-field distractions, when focused, he’s a challenging presence on the right side.

21. Ben White

Ben White justified his hefty transfer fee at Arsenal with versatile performances both at right back and center back. His ability to adapt and improve makes him a key figure in Arsenal’s defensive setup, complementing teammates like Saka and Ødegaard effectively.

20. Nordi Mukiele

Nordi Mukiele quickly impressed Sunderland fans after his £9.5 million move from Bayer Leverkusen. Offering strength in defense, adventurous runs forward, and dangerous long throws, the former PSG player has become a Premier League standout at just 28.

19. Ola Aina

Ola Aina found his footing after moving to Italy and has since established himself as a solid Premier League performer with Nottingham Forest. Equally adept at attacking support and defensive duties, Aina balances his flank well.

18. Julian Ryerson

Julian Ryerson has emerged as Borussia Dortmund’s go-to set-piece provider. With 11 assists in the first part of the 2025–26 Bundesliga season, he has vastly improved his creative output, helping Dortmund’s attack flourish.

17. Conor Bradley

Conor Bradley rose swiftly at Liverpool after a strong loan spell at Bolton. Now stepping up as Alexander-Arnold’s successor, managing injuries will be key to his progress.

16. Pedro Porro

Pedro Porro is a delight to watch when in form, especially for Tottenham Hotspur, where his precise passing can break down defenses. Defensive lapses limit his overall impact, but his offensive skill remains notable.

15. Tino Livramento

Tino Livramento overcame a serious knee injury to become a vital player for Newcastle United. Comfortable on either flank, his speed and adaptability have helped Eddie Howe’s side this season.

14. Zeki Çelik

Zeki Çelik has faced challenges securing minutes at Roma but regained his attacking instincts as a wingback in Gasperini’s system. Despite lacking top-flight experience in Turkey, he remains a crucial player for his national team.

13. Konrad Laimer

Konrad Laimer transitioned from midfield to right back at Bayern Munich with great success. His stamina and physicality enable him to contribute on both ends. Occasionally filling in at left back showcases his versatility.

12. Daniel Muñoz

Daniel Muñoz is a hidden gem who blossomed after moving from Colombia to Europe. As Crystal Palace’s wingback, he combines pace and excellent passing to become a fan favorite and was integral in their FA Cup win.

11. Marco Palestra

Marco Palestra shot to prominence during the 2025–26 season, transforming from a youth prospect into a sought-after right back at Atalanta and the Italian national team. His relentless runs and energy make him a promising star for Inter’s future.

10. Marcos Llorente

Marcos Llorente blends midfielder skills with right back duties at Atlético Madrid. Known for his speed, tackling, and awareness, he frequently contributes goals and assists while maintaining solid defensive work.

9. Matheus Nunes

Matheus Nunes found new life at right back under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City after struggling in midfield. His blend of intelligence, positioning, and distribution earned high praise from Guardiola, who sees him becoming one of the best in his position.

8. Jeremie Frimpong

Jeremie Frimpong impressed at Celtic and Bayer Leverkusen before joining Liverpool. Injuries slowed his start at Anfield, but when fit, his pace and attacking threat are undeniable.

7. Giovanni Di Lorenzo

Giovanni Di Lorenzo led Napoli to Serie A titles and remains a steady, aggressive defender for club and country. His consistent performances provide stability to both teams’ backlines.

6. Trent Alexander-Arnold

Trent Alexander-Arnold redefined what a modern fullback can do with his pinpoint passing and vision. His move from Liverpool to Real Madrid in 2025 added more trophies to his collection despite some injury setbacks. His creativity has drawn comparisons to legends like David Beckham.

5. Denzel Dumfries

Denzel Dumfries stands out among the Netherlands’ wealth of right backs. At Inter Milan, his pace and power make him a constant attacking threat while still providing solid defense. His contributions have been key in Inter’s recent successes.

4. Jules Koundé

Jules Koundé adapted from center back to right back at Barcelona and France, becoming a reliable option despite initial reluctance. His defensive solidity pairs well with his partnership alongside young talents like Lamine Yamal.

3. Reece James

Reece James has shown himself as one of the most complete right backs, combining strong defense with deadly crosses and goal-scoring ability. Injury troubles have hampered him, but renewed fitness offers a chance for consistent impact at Chelsea.

2. Jurrien Timber

Jurrien Timber missed his Arsenal debut season due to injury but bounced back impressively. He thrives on the right side with composure and growing attacking threat, becoming a dependable figure in Arsenal’s backline.

1. Achraf Hakimi

Achraf Hakimi excelled at Inter Milan under Conte, playing a vital role in their title win. Now at Paris Saint-Germain, his speed and decision-making shine as he helped end their Champions League drought. His balanced attack and defense mark him as the world’s best right back heading into the 2026 World Cup.