Best Right-Backs in World Football

Right-backs play a crucial role in modern football, blending defensive solidity with attacking prowess. Over the years, the position has evolved, with full-backs now expected to contribute to both ends of the pitch. Here, we take a look at some of the best right-backs in world football today.

1. Kyle Walker (Manchester City & England)

Strengths:

• Exceptional speed and acceleration

• Strong defensive awareness

• Versatile and adaptable

  
  

• Leadership and experience

Kyle Walker has been a mainstay in Manchester City’s defense under Pep Guardiola. His pace allows him to recover quickly, while his tactical intelligence makes him a reliable defender. Additionally, Walker’s ability to play as an inverted full-back has been instrumental in City’s tactical setup.

2. Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool & England)

Strengths:

• Outstanding crossing ability

• Exceptional passing range

• Playmaking from deep positions

• Set-piece specialist

Trent Alexander-Arnold is redefining the right-back role with his incredible playmaking skills. His vision and passing range make him a key creative force for Liverpool, contributing significantly to their attacking play. Though sometimes criticized for his defensive lapses, his offensive contribution is unmatched among full-backs.

3. Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain & Morocco)

Strengths:

• Explosive pace and dribbling ability

• Excellent attacking instincts

• Versatility to play on both flanks

• High goal and assist output

Hakimi is one of the most dynamic right-backs in world football. His blistering speed allows him to make overlapping runs, while his ability to score and assist makes him a valuable asset for PSG. He played a crucial role in Morocco’s historic 2022 World Cup run.

4. João Cancelo (Barcelona [on loan from Manchester City] & Portugal)

Strengths:

• Technically gifted with excellent dribbling

• Comfortable on both left and right flanks

• Strong in possession and build-up play

• Ability to play in an inverted full-back role

João Cancelo is among the most versatile right-backs in the world. His technical ability and tactical awareness allow him to contribute significantly in both attack and defense. His loan move to Barcelona has seen him continue his impressive performances.

5. Reece James (Chelsea & England)

Strengths:

• Strong physical presence

• Excellent crossing and passing

• Defensive solidity

• Versatile and capable of playing as a wing-back

Reece James is a powerful right-back who excels in both defensive and attacking situations. His ability to whip in dangerous crosses and his strong tackling make him an invaluable player for Chelsea. Injuries have hampered his progress, but when fit, he is one of the best in the world.

6. Kieran Trippier (Newcastle United & England)

Strengths:

• Set-piece expertise

• Strong leadership qualities

• Excellent defensive awareness

• Consistent performances

Trippier has been a key figure in Newcastle’s resurgence. His experience and leadership have provided stability to their defense. Additionally, his set-piece deliveries make him a constant threat in attacking situations.

7. Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid & Spain)

Strengths:

• Tactical intelligence

• Strong defensive attributes

• Big-game experience

• Consistency and reliability

Dani Carvajal has been a stalwart for Real Madrid for nearly a decade. His ability to perform in high-pressure games makes him one of the most reliable right-backs in the world. Despite occasional injury setbacks, he remains a key player for Los Blancos.

8. Benjamin Pavard (Inter Milan & France)

Strengths:

• Versatility (can play as center-back as well)

• Strong defensive positioning

• Excellent ball distribution

• Tactical awareness

Pavard is a dependable right-back known for his defensive capabilities and composure on the ball. His versatility allows him to operate as a center-back when needed, making him a valuable asset for any team.

9. Giovanni Di Lorenzo (Napoli & Italy)

Strengths:

• Strong leadership qualities

• Defensive discipline

• Good crossing ability

• Consistency in performances

Di Lorenzo played a pivotal role in Napoli’s Serie A triumph. His defensive discipline and attacking contributions make him one of the best right-backs in Europe. As Napoli’s captain, he brings leadership and experience to the team.

10. Jeremie Frimpong (Bayer Leverkusen & Netherlands)

Strengths:

• Exceptional dribbling and pace

• Strong attacking output

• High energy levels

• Great goal-scoring ability for a full-back

Frimpong is a rising star known for his attacking instincts and dribbling skills. His ability to make forward runs and contribute to goals makes him a standout performer for Bayer Leverkusen.

Conclusion

The modern right-back role has evolved significantly, with full-backs now expected to contribute both offensively and defensively. Players like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Achraf Hakimi offer attacking brilliance, while others like Kyle Walker and Dani Carvajal provide defensive stability. The players mentioned above represent the best in world football, each bringing unique qualities to their teams.