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Top 10 Right Backs in Football in 2026: Defensive and Offensive Leaders

The role of right backs has shifted from purely defensive to a balanced blend of defense and attack. Players like Achraf Hakimi, Jurrien Timber, and Jules Koundé top the rankings this year by combining solid defending with significant goal contributions. Metrics such as tackles, interceptions, goals, and assists were used to decide who leads the pack.

Once overlooked, the full-back position now commands attention, with stars such as Gary Neville, Dani Alves, Lahm, and today’s talents including Trent Alexander-Arnold, Achraf Hakimi, and Denzel Dumfries. As the 2025-26 season ends and the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, many wonder: who is the best right back currently?

Top 10 Right Backs Ranked

  • 10. Denzel Dumfries - Real Madrid (Netherlands)
  • 9. Trent Alexander-Arnold - Real Madrid (England)
  • 8. Pedro Porro - Tottenham Hotspur (Spain)
  • 7. Reece James - Chelsea FC (England)
  • 6. Julian Ryerson - Borussia Dortmund (Norway)
  • 5. Matheus Nunes - Manchester City (England)
  • 4. Jules Koundé - FC Barcelona (France)
  • 3. Marcos Llorente - Atlético Madrid (Spain)
  • 2. Jurrien Timber - Arsenal FC (Netherlands)
  • 1. Achraf Hakimi - Paris Saint-Germain (Morocco)

Ranking Criteria

Our rankings focus mainly on defensive skills—tackles, interceptions, blocks—and offensive output, including goals and assists. These stats reflect how modern right backs contribute not only to defense but also to attacking playmaking. Data comes from reliable sources such as Fbref, Transfermarkt, and Sportsdunia.

Player Highlights and Stats

Dumfries’ career picked up after moving to PSV Eindhoven in 2018, later excelling at Inter Milan with his attacking drive and stamina. Despite an ankle injury limiting him in 2025-26, he joined Real Madrid ahead of the World Cup. He remains a key figure for the Netherlands.

  • Appearances: 25
  • Goals: 5
  • Assists: 1
  • Recoveries per 90: 3.02
  • Interceptions per 90: 0.50
  • Tackles per 90: 1.60

Known for his pace and precise passing, Trent plays a vital role in Real Madrid’s attack though defensive consistency remains an area for improvement. Injuries limited his season but he still made an impact.

  • Appearances: 23
  • Goals: 0
  • Assists: 5
  • Recoveries per 90: 4.04
  • Interceptions per 90: 0.97
  • Tackles per 90: 1.68

Porro stands out for his attacking runs and crossing accuracy. After overcoming early inconsistency, he helped Spurs avoid relegation worries and contributed significantly in their Europa League success.

  • Appearances: 43
  • Goals: 2
  • Assists: 4
  • Recoveries per 90: 4.59
  • Interceptions per 90: 1.26
  • Tackles per 90: 1.74

James has been a dependable force for Chelsea, often shifting between right back and defensive midfield roles. Despite injuries, his speed and agility keep him among the top defenders worldwide.

  • Appearances: 37
  • Goals: 3
  • Assists: 6
  • Recoveries per 90: 4.89
  • Interceptions per 90: 1.55
  • Tackles per 90: 1.74

Ryerson’s rise began in Norway before shining in the Bundesliga with Dortmund. His aggressive attacking style and strong defensive marking make him a valuable asset for club and country.

  • Appearances: 36
  • Goals: 0
  • Assists: 17
  • Recoveries per 90: 5.37
  • Interceptions per 90: 0.94
  • Tackles per 90: 1.86

Initially a midfielder, Guardiola converted Nunes into a right back. After adapting defensively, he played a big part in City’s cup victories, using his pace and physicality effectively.

  • Appearances: 49
  • Goals: 4
  • Assists: 8
  • Recoveries per 90: 5.35
  • Interceptions per 90: 0.78
  • Tackles per 90: 1.51

Koundé switched from center-back to right back and excels in both attack and defense. He supports Barcelona's attacking build-up and is a threat on set pieces, playing a key role in the club’s recent successes.

  • Appearances: 45
  • Goals: 3
  • Assists: 4
  • Recoveries per 90: 3.67
  • Interceptions per 90: 1.21
  • Tackles per 90: 1.97

Once a central midfielder, Llorente now guards Atletico’s right flank with energy and grit. His ability to handle speedy attackers and contribute offensively has made him indispensable for club and country.

  • Appearances: 43
  • Goals: 4
  • Assists: 5
  • Recoveries per 90: 4.66
  • Interceptions per 90: 0.79
  • Tackles per 90: 2.58

Timber has been a rock for Arsenal, known for his versatility and aggression. His crosses, ball-winning skills, and offensive contributions helped Arsenal clinch the Premier League title. Sadly, injury ruled him out of the World Cup.

  • Appearances: 44
  • Goals: 4
  • Assists: 6
  • Recoveries per 90: 3.92
  • Interceptions per 90: 0.83
  • Tackles per 90: 2.32

Hakimi tops the list after leading PSG to multiple trophies and earning the African Player of the Year award. Known for his lightning pace and sharp passes, he remains a dominant force in both defense and attack, recently extending his contract until 2029.

  • Appearances: 43
  • Goals: 5
  • Assists: 11
  • Recoveries per 90: 4.75
  • Interceptions per 90: 0.67
  • Tackles per 90: 1.45

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