Ranking the Top 25 Right Backs in World Soccer
Once viewed as the least exciting spot on the pitch, the right back position has undergone a dramatic transformation. The old idea that the right back was merely a defensive player has given way to a more dynamic role. Modern fullbacks not only patrol the flank but often drift inside to become additional midfielders, blending defense with playmaking.
This shift has produced a generation of players who have redefined the position, making it one of the most distinct and vital on the field. Here's our ranking of the top 25 right backs worldwide.
25. Dani Carvajal
Dani Carvajal stands as a Real Madrid icon, boasting six Champions League titles and four La Liga trophies over more than ten years with the club. Despite debates over his impact, both Zinedine Zidane and Carlo Ancelotti placed great trust in him.
His standout season came in 2023–24, when he helped Madrid clinch La Liga and scored in the Champions League final, securing the club's 15th European title. That year also saw Spain triumph at Euro 2024 with Carvajal playing a key role, finishing fourth in the Ballon d’Or rankings. A serious ACL injury in October put a halt to what appears to be his final campaign at Real Madrid, but many clubs would value his experience highly.
24. João Cancelo
João Cancelo has dazzled with his ball skills, yet his recent dip in form is baffling. Known for unpredictability and flair rather than defensive solidity, the Portugal international once thrived at Manchester City before a fallout led to loan spells at Bayern Munich and Barcelona. After a stint in Saudi Arabia with Al Hilal, he made a surprising return to Barcelona in January.
23. Nahuel Molina
Nahuel Molina may not grab headlines, but he's a consistent performer for Argentina and Atlético Madrid. With a World Cup and two Copa América titles to his name, Molina combines steady defense with useful attacking support, even if club silverware has been elusive.
22. Diogo Dalot
Diogo Dalot is known for relentless effort despite Manchester United's inconsistency since his arrival in 2018. Challenges off the pitch have affected his form, but when in rhythm, his tireless runs and work rate make him a tough opponent down the right flank.
21. Ben White
Ben White raised eyebrows when Arsenal paid around $69 million for him in 2021. He has justified the investment with reliable performances both at right back and center back. His adaptability benefits teammates like Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard, and he might have earned a spot in England’s World Cup squad if not for injury.
20. Nordi Mukiele
Nordi Mukiele has impressed Sunderland fans since joining from Bayer Leverkusen for just £9.5 million. At 28, the former Paris Saint-Germain defender blends defensive stability with attacking ventures and long throws, quickly adapting to the Premier League’s demands.
19. Ola Aina
Ola Aina struggled for minutes at Chelsea but found his stride after moving to Torino in Italy and later Nottingham Forest. The Nigeria international balances attack and defense well, capable of challenging speedy wingers while supporting forward plays.
18. Julian Ryerson
Julian Ryerson has emerged as Borussia Dortmund's set-piece specialist. The Norway international tallied 11 assists in the first 20 games of the 2025–26 Bundesliga season, surpassing his total from previous campaigns combined.
17. Conor Bradley
Conor Bradley surprised many with his rise. After a strong loan at Bolton Wanderers, he became a regular at Liverpool, stepping up following Trent Alexander-Arnold’s departure. Staying fit will be key for Bradley’s continued progress.
16. Pedro Porro
Pedro Porro can unlock tight defenses with his precise passing and occasionally scores stunning long-range goals for Tottenham Hotspur. Defensive lapses remain an issue, but his attacking flair makes him stand out, earning high praise from coach Thomas Frank.
15. Tino Livramento
Tino Livramento bounced back from a serious knee injury at Southampton to shine at Newcastle United. Signed for £32 million in 2023, he retains his pace and versatility, performing well on both flanks and becoming crucial under Eddie Howe.
14. Zeki Çelik
Zeki Çelik won Ligue 1 with Lille and now plays at Roma, where he often features as a wingback. Despite limited experience in Turkey’s domestic league, he remains an important figure for the national team and eyes a strong World Cup showing.
13. Konrad Laimer
Konrad Laimer arrived at Bayern Munich as a box-to-box midfielder but has adapted well to right back. His energy helps Bayern both defensively and offensively, even filling in at left back when necessary, impressing coaches like Vincent Kompany.
12. Daniel Muñoz
Daniel Muñoz took time to emerge, having spent much of his early career in Colombia before moving to Genk and then Crystal Palace. As a wingback, his pace and delivery have been vital to Palace’s FA Cup win in 2024–25, making him a fan favorite.
11. Marco Palestra
Marco Palestra went from struggling to break into Atalanta’s squad and Italy’s U-21 team to becoming a sought-after international at 20. Known for relentless runs and stamina, he’s viewed by Inter as a prime candidate to replace Denzel Dumfries.
10. Marcos Llorente
Marcos Llorente shifted from midfield to right back at Atlético Madrid with great success. His speed and tenacity frustrate opponents while his midfielder’s awareness allows him to contribute goals and assists.
9. Matheus Nunes
Matheus Nunes reinvented himself under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City by switching to right back. His engine, technical skill, and game intelligence caught the manager’s eye, who praised him as a potential future star in the role.
8. Jeremie Frimpong
Jeremie Frimpong developed through English youth systems and gained fame at Celtic before excelling at Bayer Leverkusen, helping them win the Bundesliga. Though injuries slowed his start at Liverpool, his talent remains unquestioned.
7. Giovanni Di Lorenzo
Giovanni Di Lorenzo captained Napoli to Serie A titles and is regarded as one of the league’s best fullbacks. His physical and disciplined defending provides balance to Napoli and Italy’s squads.
6. Trent Alexander-Arnold
Trent Alexander-Arnold transformed what it means to be a defender with exceptional passing and playmaking skills. After rising with Liverpool, he moved to Real Madrid in 2025, where injuries have hampered his start, but glimpses of brilliance remain.
5. Denzel Dumfries
Denzel Dumfries leads a crop of talented Dutch right backs with his powerful running and attacking threat. His role at Inter Milan has seen him help the club reach two Champions League finals alongside domestic success.
4. Jules Koundé
Jules Koundé initially a center back, has adapted well to right back at Barcelona and France despite initial reluctance. He’s proven dependable and effective, especially in combination with Lamine Yamal.
3. Reece James
Reece James was once deemed the most complete right back, blending powerful crossing and shooting with stout defense. Injuries slowed him down, but recent improvements in fitness have allowed him to perform consistently at Chelsea.
2. Jurriën Timber
Jurriën Timber missed his Arsenal debut season due to injury but has returned strongly. Versatile across the backline, he excels at right back, bringing reliability and growing attacking flair to the Gunners.
1. Achraf Hakimi
Achraf Hakimi thrived under Antonio Conte at Inter Milan, playing a key part in their 2020–21 title win. Moving to Paris Saint-Germain, he combines explosive speed with smart decision-making. His attacking contributions helped PSG finally win the Champions League in 2024–25. He continues to lead Morocco, reaching the Africa Cup of Nations final in 2026 and preparing for the upcoming World Cup.
