Top 10 Best Right Backs in the World 2026: Defensive and Offensive Impact

The role of right backs has changed significantly over time, shifting from purely defensive duties to a blend of defense and attack. Players like Achraf Hakimi, Jurrien Timber, and Jules Koundé stand out in 2026 because of their strong defensive skills combined with goal contributions. Key stats such as tackles, interceptions, blocks, goals, and assists are used to assess their influence on the game. This list focuses on versatile defenders who have made their mark in top leagues, showing how important full-backs have become in modern football.

Historically, forwards dominated discussions about the best players, while full-backs received less attention. Today, the position commands respect due to evolving tactical demands. Legendary full-backs like Gary Neville, Dani Alves, and Philipp Lahm paved the way for stars like Trent Alexander-Arnold, Achraf Hakimi, and Denzel Dumfries, who now combine defensive solidity with offensive threat. With the 2025-26 season wrapped up and the World Cup underway, we ranked the top 10 right backs based on their overall performance.

Top 10 Right Backs in the World 2026

• 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

Criteria Behind the Rankings

Our rankings focus on several factors to measure the overall impact of these players:

• Defensive Stats: Tackles, interceptions, and blocks are prioritized since defending is fundamental for right backs.
• Goal Contributions: Goals and assists reflect attacking involvement and creativity, crucial for modern full-backs who help generate scoring chances.

Data comes from trusted sources including Fbref, Transfermarkt, and Sportsdunia.

Profile Highlights of Each Player

10. Denzel Dumfries (Real Madrid)

Dumfries developed his reputation in Serie A with Inter Milan before moving to Real Madrid. Known for stamina and attacking aggression, he impressed in the Champions League semifinal against Barcelona. Unfortunately, a serious ankle injury limited his 2025-26 season appearances. Now back with the Dutch national team for the World Cup, Dumfries hopes to regain full form.

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

9. Trent Alexander-Arnold (Real Madrid)

Alexander-Arnold combines pace with precise passing, fitting the modern full-back mold. His Liverpool days showcased his attacking flair, though injuries hindered his consistency at Real Madrid. Despite defensive weaknesses, he remains influential with key assists.

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

8. Pedro Porro (Tottenham Hotspur)

Porro’s attacking style stands out with effective crosses and link-up play. After overcoming criticism of inconsistency, he became vital in Tottenham’s efforts to avoid relegation. He played a key role in Spurs’ Europa League win the previous season but awaits his first World Cup appearance.

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

7. Reece James (Chelsea FC)

James showed promise early at Chelsea, becoming captain and leading them to the 2025 Club World Cup. Known for speed and agility, he sometimes shifts into midfield. Injuries have slowed him recently, but he remains a dependable figure.

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

6. Julian Ryerson (Borussia Dortmund)

Ryerson’s rise began in Norway before moving to Germany. His crosses and aggressive runs fuel Dortmund’s attack. His strong marking and pace make him a key player both for club and country.

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

5. Matheus Nunes (Manchester City)

Initially a midfielder, Nunes was converted to right back by Pep Guardiola. His early defensive struggles gave way to solid performances in 2025-26, helping City win domestic cups. His pace and physicality improved, making him a contender for Portugal’s national team spot.

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

4. Jules Koundé (FC Barcelona)

Koundé transitioned from center-back to right back, blending defensive discipline with attacking threat. He creates space for teammates and contributes to set-pieces. Despite some late-season inconsistency, he played well in France’s World Cup opener.

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

3. Marcos Llorente (Atlético Madrid)

Llorente shifted permanently to right back for Atlético Madrid, using his versatility to handle fast attackers. His energy and experience anchor the defense. Spain’s coach trusts him as the starting right back for the World Cup.

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

2. Jurrien Timber (Arsenal)

Timber is a versatile defender excelling for Arsenal. Known for his aggressive style and adaptability, he contributed goals and assists during Arsenal’s Premier League title run. Unfortunately, injury ruled him out of the 2026 World Cup after featuring as a substitute in the Champions League final.

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

1. Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain)

Hakimi has been outstanding for PSG, combining lightning speed with sharp passing. After winning multiple trophies in 2024-25 and earning African Player of the Year, he overcame an injury in 2025-26 to help PSG secure their second consecutive Champions League title. His contract runs through 2029, cementing his place at the top.

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

FAQs

• Is Achraf Hakimi the world’s best right back in 2026? Yes, he holds the top spot.
• Are there La Liga players among the top 10 right backs? Yes, four players from La Liga feature on this list.
• How many goals and assists does Jules Koundé have in 2025-26? He scored 3 goals and provided 4 assists.
• Is there a Bundesliga player in the top 10 right backs? Yes, Julian Ryerson represents the Bundesliga.