Top 25 Right Backs in World Soccer Ranked

Once viewed as a less critical position, the right back role has transformed drastically over time. Modern tactics demand these players not only patrol the flanks but also drift inside to bolster midfield play. This evolution has produced some of the most versatile and exciting figures in football today.

Ranking the Elite: The Best Right Backs Worldwide

Compiling a list of the top 25 right backs is a challenge given the abundance of talent and varied styles. Yet, here is our selection highlighting those who stand out through their achievements, skills, and impact.

25. Dani Carvajal

A stalwart at Real Madrid, Carvajal boasts six Champions League titles and four La Liga crowns. His career reached a high point during the 2023–24 season with a league title and a Champions League final goal. Despite an ACL injury affecting his current form, his decade-long service cements him among the best.

24. João Cancelo

Known for his unpredictable flair, Cancelo’s ball control remains exceptional. Although defensive consistency is lacking, his attacking prowess helped him shine at Manchester City. After stints at Bayern Munich and Barcelona, and a surprising move to Saudi Arabia, he returned to Barcelona in early 2026.

23. Nahuel Molina

An Argentina regular, Molina is a dependable presence for both club and country. He has won the World Cup and two Copa América trophies and continues to contribute offensively at Atlético Madrid.

22. Diogo Dalot

Dalot’s work ethic stands out even when Manchester United’s form wavers. His relentless runs and defensive efforts make him a constant threat down the right flank.

21. Ben White

Arsenal’s £69 million signing, White impresses with his adaptability across defense. His influence extends beyond his position, enhancing teammates like Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard, while a timely injury setback prevented potential World Cup participation.

20. Nordi Mukiele

Mukiele arrived at Sunderland from Bayer Leverkusen for a modest fee but quickly made a strong impact. Combining defensive solidity with offensive ambition and aerial ability, the 28-year-old brings balance to his team.

19. Ola Aina

After struggling to break into Chelsea’s first team, Aina found success in Italy before returning to England with Nottingham Forest. The Nigerian international offers a blend of defensive reliability and forward support in the Premier League.

18. Julian Ryerson

Dortmund’s set-piece specialist experienced a surge in creativity, delivering more assists early in the 2025–26 Bundesliga season than in all prior appearances combined, showcasing remarkable precision and calmness.

17. Conor Bradley

Bradley’s rise at Liverpool surprised many. After a successful loan, he earned playing time as Alexander-Arnold’s understudy. Continued progress depends on managing injuries effectively.

16. Pedro Porro

Porro dazzles with distribution and occasional long-range goals for Tottenham Hotspur. Defensively, he remains inconsistent, yet his offensive skills keep him vital to the team.

15. Tino Livramento

Despite a serious knee injury early in his career, Livramento impressed Newcastle enough to justify a £32 million transfer. He has retained his pace and versatility, thriving under Eddie Howe’s guidance.

14. Zeki Çelik

Lille Ligue 1 winner Çelik has adapted at Roma, often playing centre back before reclaiming wingback duties. Although he never played in Turkey's top league, he remains crucial for his national side.

13. Konrad Laimer

Originally a midfielder, Laimer shifted to right back at Bayern Munich, where his energetic runs helped secure the Bundesliga title. His versatility even sees him cover left back when required.

12. Daniel Muñoz

Muñoz rose from Colombia to European recognition, starring as a wingback for Crystal Palace. His speed and precise passing were key to the Eagles’ FA Cup triumph in 2024–25.

11. Marco Palestra

Once overlooked by Italy’s youth squads, Palestra exploded onto the scene at 20, attracting huge transfer interest. Known for tireless runs along the right flank, he’s tipped as a successor to Denzel Dumfries.

10. Marcos Llorente

Llorente thrives in Atlético Madrid’s system, using his speed and tackling to disrupt opponents. His midfield background grants him an acute understanding of space and attack.

9. Matheus Nunes

Under Pep Guardiola, Nunes reinvented himself as a right back at Manchester City. His stamina, technical skill, and game intelligence earned high praise from the manager, who believes Nunes could become one of the best.

8. Jeremie Frimpong

Frimpong, who played alongside Jadon Sancho in youth football, impressed at Celtic and Bayer Leverkusen before joining Liverpool. Injuries have hampered him, but his talent remains evident.

7. Giovanni Di Lorenzo

Captain of Napoli’s 2024–25 Scudetto-winning side, Di Lorenzo is a robust defender who balances aggression with steady ball retention. He’s a cornerstone for both club and Italy.

6. Trent Alexander-Arnold

Alexander-Arnold redefined defensive play with his exceptional passing. His move from Liverpool to Real Madrid in 2025 marked a new chapter. Despite injuries, his creative brilliance shines through, sparking comparisons to legends.

5. Denzel Dumfries

Dumfries stands out among Dutch right backs. His blistering pace and strength make him formidable offensively and defensively. He has helped Inter Milan reach Champions League finals and claim domestic trophies.

4. Jules Koundé

Initially a centre back, Koundé adapted to right back roles for Barcelona and France. His consistent performances and chemistry with young talents highlight his defensive qualities.

3. Reece James

James blends powerful crosses with solid defending. Once considered the most complete right back, injuries slowed him down, but recent fitness improvements have allowed him to regain form at Chelsea.

2. Jurrien Timber

Timber missed his Arsenal debut season due to injury but bounced back impressively. His versatility and growing confidence make him a reliable right back with an emerging attacking edge.

1. Achraf Hakimi

Hakimi excelled under Antonio Conte at Inter Milan, playing a key role in winning the 2020–21 Scudetto. Now at Paris Saint-Germain, his speed, sharp decision-making, and balanced defense continue to impress. He scored crucial goals during PSG’s 2024–25 Champions League run and led Morocco to the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations final.