The 20 Best Left-Backs in the Premier League Right Now
Once considered purely defensive roles, left-backs in the Premier League now embody tactical flexibility, attacking flair, and defensive intelligence. From rising stars to seasoned veterans, here's a countdown of the top 20 left-backs currently lighting up England’s top flight.
20. Gabriel Gudmundsson – Leeds United
Gabriel Gudmundsson blends pace and composure with both defensive and attacking capabilities. The Swedish international impressed during Lille's Champions League run and now plays a vital role in Leeds United's survival push.
19. El Hadji Malick Diouf – West Ham United
West Ham’s Diouf often looks more like a winger than a full-back, whipping in dangerous crosses with ease. His lack of experience holds him back for now, but his potential is immense if he sharpens his defensive game.
18. Adrien Truffert – Bournemouth
After arriving from Rennes, Adrien Truffert has helped stabilise Bournemouth’s backline post-Kerkez. With his attacking instincts and solid defending, he’s quickly becoming a fan favourite at the Vitality Stadium.
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17. Maxim De Cuyper – Brighton & Hove Albion
A product of Club Brugge’s academy, De Cuyper brings elite creativity to Brighton’s flank. With 31 goal contributions last season in Belgium, he could be the next breakout star on the south coast.
16. Tyrick Mitchell – Crystal Palace
Mitchell has been a steady presence for Palace since 2016 and remains a trusted figure in their backline. While he doesn’t make many headlines, his reliability continues to serve the Eagles well.
15. Destiny Udogie – Tottenham Hotspur
Udogie exploded onto the scene last season, combining strong defence with explosive runs. A recent injury and competition for his spot have seen him drop down the pecking order at Spurs.
14. Luke Shaw – Manchester United
Injuries have stalled Shaw’s progress, but his quality when fit is undeniable. Now occasionally playing as a centre-back, he remains one of United’s most versatile defenders.
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13. Neco Williams – Nottingham Forest
Williams has flourished since leaving Liverpool, bringing drive and adventure to Forest’s flanks. While his defensive consistency is still developing, his attacking intent makes him a standout.
12. Vitaliy Mykolenko – Everton
Often overlooked, Mykolenko plays a key role in Everton’s defensive resilience. His calmness under pressure and smart positioning make him a quietly vital player for the Toffees.
11. Patrick Dorgu – Manchester United
Dorgu endured a rough start but has become a mainstay in United’s left-wing-back role. With endless energy and attacking drive, he’s earning his place in a competitive squad.
10. Jorrel Hato – Chelsea
The young Dutchman made waves at Ajax and is now learning his trade at Chelsea. Despite limited minutes behind Cucurella, Hato’s technique and maturity hint at a bright future.
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9. Andy Robertson – Liverpool
A modern full-back icon, Robertson redefined the role alongside Trent Alexander-Arnold. Though no longer at his peak, he remains a crucial piece of Arne Slot’s Liverpool setup.
8. Lewis Hall – Newcastle United
Hall finally found his feet at Newcastle after a slow start. His ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch made him a key player before an early-season injury sidelined him.
7. Rayan Ait-Nouri – Manchester City
A standout for Wolves last season, Ait-Nouri earned a big move to Man City. Though still settling in, his attacking threat and work rate point to an exciting future at the Etihad.
6. Antonee Robinson – Fulham
Fulham’s flying American has quietly become one of the league’s most balanced left-backs. With 10 assists last season, Robinson’s consistency continues to attract interest from bigger clubs.
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5. Djed Spence – Tottenham Hotspur
Spence has revived his career with Tottenham and earned a spot in England’s setup. Now thriving under Thomas Tuchel, he’s turning heads with his energy and newfound composure.
4. Myles Lewis-Skelly – Arsenal
Thrown into the mix after Calafiori’s injury, Lewis-Skelly seized his moment. The teenage midfielder-turned-full-back has impressed with maturity, despite occasional rashness.
3. Milos Kerkez – Liverpool
Kerkez brings fire and flair to Liverpool’s left flank, though inconsistency remains a hurdle. If he smooths out the rough edges, the 21-year-old could become a world-class talent.
2. Riccardo Calafiori – Arsenal
Calafiori combines defensive bite with graceful attacking movement, drifting centrally like a midfielder. His presence has been transformative for Arsenal and shows no signs of slowing down.
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1. Marc Cucurella – Chelsea
Once written off at Stamford Bridge, Cucurella has roared back to form under Maresca. Fresh off a standout Euro 2024 campaign, he’s now Chelsea’s most dependable full-back and the Premier League’s best left-back right now.
