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Top 10 Right Backs in the World for 2026

The right-back position has shifted dramatically from just defensive duties to a role demanding both solid defending and active attacking participation. Players like Achraf Hakimi, Jurrien Timber, and Jules Koundé top the charts in 2026, combining strong defensive stats with goal contributions. This list focuses on versatile defenders excelling in major leagues worldwide, reflecting how full-backs have become key to both defense and offense.

Once overlooked compared to forwards, right backs now draw significant attention as their roles have expanded. From legendary figures like Gary Neville, Dani Alves, and Philipp Lahm, to modern stars such as Trent Alexander-Arnold, Achraf Hakimi, and Denzel Dumfries, the position has evolved immensely. As the 2025-26 season wraps up and players head into the FIFA World Cup 2026, the debate on the world's best right back heats up. We ranked the top 10 based on factors like goals, assists, and overall influence.

Top 10 Right Backs in 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

Ranking Criteria

To compile this list, we considered:

  • Defensive Metrics: Tackles, interceptions, and blocks form the core as stopping opponents remains a full-back’s main task.
  • Goal Contributions: Goals and assists measure how much the right backs impact the attack, vital in today's football.

Data was sourced from football analysis platforms like Fbref, Transfermarkt, and Sportsdunia.

Player Profiles & Stats

The Dutch defender turned his career around after joining PSV Eindhoven in 2018. Known for his energy and tenacity, Dumfries played a pivotal role in Inter Milan’s recent success. A serious ankle injury limited his 2025-26 season action, but he recently signed for Real Madrid and is part of the Netherlands squad for the World Cup.

  • 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 became a top right back at Liverpool before moving to Real Madrid. Injuries affected his form but he still showed glimpses of brilliance. His defensive game remains an area to improve.

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

Porro combines skillful attacking runs with solid defensive work. After overcoming criticism about consistency, the Spaniard has been crucial for Spurs, especially helping them avoid relegation threats in 2025-26. He also played a key role in their 2024-25 Europa League win.

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

Since breaking into Chelsea’s first team, James has shown speed, agility, and leadership, captaining the club to a FIFA Club World Cup win in 2025. Versatile enough to play midfield, injuries have hampered his consistency recently.

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

A Norwegian talent, Ryerson has thrived since moving to Dortmund in 2023. His attacking runs and crosses make him invaluable, along with solid defensive contributions and physicality.

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

Originally a midfielder, Nunes was converted to right back by Pep Guardiola. After initial struggles, he has grown into the role, contributing with goals and assists and playing a key role in City's cup successes during the season.

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

Koundé started as a center-back but transitioned smoothly to right back for Barcelona. Known for his attacking runs and defensive discipline, he helped Barcelona secure league and cup titles. He also performed well for France in the World Cup opener.

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

Formerly a central midfielder, Llorente now anchors Atlético's defense on the right. His work rate and versatility enable him to contain top attackers regularly. Spain picked him as their starting right back for the World Cup due to his fine form.

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

Timber has been outstanding for Arsenal, delivering sharp crosses and solid defending. Able to fill multiple positions, his aggressive style and adaptability helped Arsenal clinch the Premier League after 24 years. Unfortunately, injury kept 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 stands as the top right back globally. His speed and precise passing turn defense into attack swiftly. After winning five trophies with PSG in 2024-25 and earning the CAF African Player of the Year award, he continues to shine despite injury setbacks. He helped PSG win back-to-back UCL titles and remains locked in at the club 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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