RANKINGS Top 10 Best Right-Backs in the World Right Now (2025)

The role of the right-back in football has changed tremendously, becoming one of the most interesting positions on the pitch. Right-backs are no longer limited to defensive roles. Today, they are expected to combine defensive strength with offensive flare, as well as balance, creativity, and quickness. Modern football requires versatility—right-backs must defend with precision, press forward with speed, and contribute considerably to their team’s attacking production.

Here’s a ranking of the best 10 right-backs in the world today:

10. Rico Lewis (Manchester City).

Rico Lewis, 19, has demonstrated his outstanding football IQ by excelling in a unique hybrid role under Pep Guardiola. Lewis, whether inverting into midfield or creating width on the flank, has maturity beyond his years. His versatility and tactical understanding make him an invaluable member of Manchester City’s squad, redefining what is expected of young defenders.

9. Noussair Mazraoui (Manchester United).

Mazraoui has emerged as a vital player for Manchester United after joining from Bayern Munich. He’s known for his versatility, since he can play right-back, left-back, or even centre defence. Mazraoui’s technical ability and quick decision-making combine defensive tenacity with offensive intent. This season, his consistency has elevated him to the Premier League’s top performers.

8. Pedro Porro (Tottenham Hotspur).

Pedro Porro’s offensive abilities have been a shock for Tottenham. Under Ange Postecoglou, the Spaniard has improved Tottenham’s attacking play by playing as an inverted full-back. His pace, crossing ability, and tactical flexibility make him one of Europe’s most dangerous fullbacks.

7. Denzel Dumfries (Inter Milan).

Dumfries has established himself as a reliable and dynamic right-back for Inter Milan, combining physicality and attacking intent. He is a tireless runner who excels in both defence and attack. Jurrien Timber (Arsenal) ranks sixth.

6. Jurrien Timber (Arsenal)

Despite suffering a catastrophic injury early in his Arsenal career, Timber has already demonstrated enormous potential. The Dutchman is the embodiment of a modern defender, excelling in many positions. His ball control and tactical awareness make him one of the most entertaining players to watch in international football.

5. Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich).

Kimmich frequently plays in midfield, but his performances as a right back remind everyone of his beginnings. The German international is technically gifted and tactically clever, excelling in both defensive and attacking positions. His ability to dominate games from the flanks remains unparalleled.

4. Jeremie Frimpong (Bayer Leverkusen).

Frimpong is reinventing the role of a full-back for Bayer Leverkusen. With scorching quickness and a flair for scoring, he is both a forward and a defender. His attacking contributions have been crucial to Leverkusen’s recent success, making him one of Europe’s most entertaining players.

3. Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool).

Trent Alexander-Arnold is still the gold standard for modern right backs. His vision, passing range, and unrivalled delivery from broad areas make him a creative force in Liverpool. While his defensive abilities have been questioned, his contributions to attack and build-up play solidify his status as the best in the world right now.

2) Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain)

Hakimi has established himself as one of the world’s most dynamic full-backs. With great pace and a tireless work ethic, the Moroccan international is a continuous attacking danger. His performances for PSG and during Morocco’s historic World Cup run solidify his reputation as one of the best.

1. Jules Kounde (FC Barcelona).

To be honest, he has been performing brilliantly over the last two seasons, particularly with Barcelona. The centre-back, who was switched to right-back, has improved his game and is now unstoppable in that position. From his spectacular assist to Raphinha in the Supercopa final against rivals Real Madrid to his overall influence, he has been exceptional.

Both his defensive and attacking skills are excellent. This season, he has scored two goals and assisted seven times.