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Top 10 Right Backs in the World for 2026: Defenders Who Dominate
Amir Azimi
Analysis

Top 10 Right Backs in the World for 2026: Defenders Who Dominate

Right backs have shifted from purely defensive players to key contributors in attack and defense alike. Players such as Achraf Hakimi, Jurrien Timber, and Jules Koundé top the 2026 rankings thanks to their tackling, interceptions, goals, assists, and overall influence on the game. Their versatility has made them vital in modern football, excelling across Europe’s biggest leagues.

Once overlooked, right backs now command attention alongside forwards. Past greats like Gary Neville and Dani Alves paved the way for today’s stars like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Denzel Dumfries, who blend defensive grit with attacking flair. With the 2025-26 season wrapped and the World Cup underway, we ranked the world’s best right backs based on concrete stats rather than popularity.

Top 10 Best 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 Explained

Our list is based on key factors that measure a right back's overall performance:

  • Defensive Metrics: Tackles, interceptions, and blocks reflect their core defensive duties.
  • Goal Contributions: Goals and assists show their role in creating chances and scoring.

Data was sourced from respected platforms like Fbref, Transfermarkt, and Sportsdunia to ensure accuracy.

Player Highlights and 2025-26 Stats

10. Denzel Dumfries (Real Madrid)

Dumfries found his stride after moving to PSV Eindhoven in 2018 and later became vital for Inter Milan's defense and attack. Despite an ankle injury limiting his 2025-26 season, he remains a powerful force known for stamina and tenacity. He recently joined Real Madrid, aiming to regain form for the Netherlands at the World Cup.

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

9. Trent Alexander-Arnold (Real Madrid)

Known for pace and precise passing, Trent embodies the modern attacking full-back. Injuries affected his consistency in Spain, but his brief appearances reminded fans of his quality. Defensive improvements remain a focus while he supports Real Madrid’s ambitions.

  • 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 skills and crossing ability have been crucial for Spurs’ survival in the Premier League. After overcoming early inconsistencies, the Spaniard impressed during the Europa League triumph and continues to develop as a reliable starter.

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

7. Reece James (Chelsea)

James returned to Chelsea after a loan and quickly showed his potential through strong performances and leadership. His speed and agility make him a threat both defensively and offensively, though injuries have hampered consistency. Often deployed as a defensive midfielder, his versatility shines.

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

6. Julian Ryerson (Borussia Dortmund)

Ryerson has flourished in the Bundesliga with Dortmund, known for his crossing and aggressive runs. A product of Norwegian clubs, his physicality and playmaking make him an asset for both 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)

Originally a midfielder, Nunes was converted into a right back by Pep Guardiola. After initial struggles adapting, he grew into a key player for City, using his pace and strength effectively. His offensive output helped Manchester City secure two domestic trophies in 2025-26.

  • 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 at Barcelona, blending defensive discipline with attacking runs. A crucial figure for France as well, he combines pace and positioning to link defense and offense. Koundé contributed significantly to Barcelona’s league and cup success.

  • 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 from midfield to full-back and thrives under Diego Simeone’s system. Known for work rate and versatility, he guards Atlético’s flank against elite attackers. Spain’s coach trusts him as the starting right back heading into 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’s rise at Arsenal has been impressive, showcasing skillful crossing, defensive awareness, and adaptability. Although injured late in the season, his contributions helped end Arsenal’s title drought. His aggressive style and composure make him a top right back worldwide.

  • 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 stands out as the best right back worldwide. After stints at top clubs including Real Madrid and Dortmund, he anchors PSG’s right side with pace, vision, and defensive solidity. The Moroccan won five trophies in 2024-25 and was awarded CAF African Player of the Year. Despite a serious injury in 2025-26, he returned to help PSG claim the Champions League and Ligue 1 titles.

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

Common Questions

  • Is Achraf Hakimi the best right back in 2026? Yes, he leads the rankings due to his all-around excellence.
  • How many La Liga players feature in the top 10? Four players from La Liga are included.
  • What are Jules Koundé’s stats for 2025-26? He scored 3 goals and provided 4 assists.
  • Are there any Bundesliga players in the list? Yes, Julian Ryerson represents the Bundesliga.