In today’s fast-paced football, the role of the right back has evolved dramatically. Once seen as purely defensive, right backs now contribute
just as much in attack—delivering pinpoint crosses, scoring goals, and initiating counterattacks. From legendary figures like Dani Alves to modern powerhouses
like Achraf Hakimi and Trent Alexander-Arnold, the position has become a cornerstone of tactical innovation.
This list ranks the 10 best right backs in world football in 2025 based on form, consistency, defensive quality, and attacking contributions.
Ranking Criteria
Consistency: Regular appearances in club and international competitions.
Offensive Contribution: Goals, assists, and involvement in build-up play.
Defensive Solidity: Tackles, positioning, and duels won.
10. Tino Livramento (Newcastle United)
The 22-year-old Englishman has become a key figure in Eddie Howe’s project. Originally from Chelsea’s academy, Livramento’s adaptability,
blistering pace, and one-on-one defending have helped Newcastle push for Champions League football. A complete modern full-back in the making.
9. Marcos Llorente (Atletico Madrid)
Originally a central midfielder, Llorente has seamlessly transitioned into a right-back under Diego Simeone.
His relentless work rate, speed, and experience help nullify even the most dangerous wingers in La Liga.
Llorente is a defensive rock and an unsung hero of Atletico’s system.
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8. Malo Gusto (Chelsea)
Malo Gusto has stepped up massively in Reece James’ absence. The former Lyon man brings pace, strength, and intelligence down the right flank.
His crossing ability and defensive consistency have been a silver lining in Chelsea’s rebuilding phase, making him one of the top young full-backs in Europe.
7. Giovanni Di Lorenzo (Napoli)
Napoli’s captain and defensive general, Di Lorenzo blends leadership with balanced attacking and defensive qualities.
He led Napoli to their 2022–23 Scudetto and remains vital under Antonio Conte. Despite a dip during Euro 2024,
his club form continues to prove his world-class status.
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6. Denzel Dumfries (Inter Milan)
Dumfries has been instrumental in Inter Milan’s domestic dominance. His transition from PSV to Serie A has been seamless, with his powerful running,
high stamina, and overlapping play fitting Inter’s 3-5-2 system perfectly. He’s now one of the most feared wing-backs in Europe.
5. Jurrien Timber (Arsenal)
Despite injuries early in his Arsenal stint, Timber has bounced back to become a defensive and offensive force.
Comfortable at center-back and right-back, his composure, dribbling, and tactical awareness make him an essential part of Arteta’s dynamic side.
4. Jules Koundé (Barcelona)
Naturally a center-back, Koundé has flourished at right back for both Barcelona and France. His positional sense, pace, a
nd ability to progress the ball are key assets. He bridges the gap between defense and midfield with precision and consistency.
3. Jeremie Frimpong (Bayer Leverkusen)
The Bundesliga’s most electric right-back, Frimpong’s 14-goal season under Xabi Alonso turned heads across Europe.
His explosive speed, fearless dribbling, and attacking instinct make him more of a winger than a traditional defender—and that’s exactly what modern football demands.
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2. Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool)
Trent remains the gold standard of creative full-backs. His long-range passing, free-kick prowess, and assist tally have made him indispensable at Liverpool.
Now thriving under Arne Slot, the England star continues to redefine what a right-back can do.
1. Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain)
There’s no debate—Achraf Hakimi is the best right-back in the world in 2025. His explosive pace, game intelligence, and attacking threat from deep are unmatched.
Whether surging down the flank or shutting down attackers, Hakimi dominates both ends of the pitch. His new deal with PSG runs through 2029, ensuring his legacy in
Ligue 1 continues to grow.
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Final Thoughts
Right backs today are game-changers, and the ten listed here represent the pinnacle of modern football’s evolution.
Whether it's Hakimi’s world-class engine, Frimpong’s flair, or Alexander-Arnold’s creativity, the right flank is now one of the most decisive areas of the pitch.