Nuno Mendes, Álex Grimaldo, Antonee Robinson

The 10 Best Left-Backs in the World (2025)

August 25, 2025 Aksel Kryhlmand

Once considered the spot for a team’s weakest player, the left-back role has undergone a massive transformation. Today, left-backs are versatile footballers who provide both defensive stability and attacking creativity. From pacey overlaps to inverted playmakers, the world’s best left-backs are among the most valuable players in the modern game. Here are FourFourTwo’s top 10.

10. Antonee Robinson – Fulham / United States

Robinson has evolved into Fulham’s most consistent performer, combining defensive grit with marauding runs down the left. Once viewed as a raw prospect, he has grown into a true leader at Craven Cottage, even donning the captain’s armband. His powerful runs and resilience make him a standout in the Premier League.

9. Ferland Mendy – Real Madrid / France

Mendy’s journey from overcoming career-threatening surgery as a teenager to excelling at Real Madrid is nothing short of inspirational. At 30, he still provides defensive solidity and overlapping support, often complementing Vinícius Jr’s attacking game. Injuries have slowed him down, but when called upon, he remains highly reliable.

8. Theo Hernández – AC Milan / France

One of the most explosive full-backs in Europe, Hernández strikes fear into defenders with his pace and directness. But he is not just about attacking flair – he has shown defensive discipline and even filled in at centre-back when required. With consistent numbers in goals and assists, he continues to shine as Milan’s driving force from the flank.

7. Alejandro Balde – Barcelona / Spain

La Masia continues to produce gems, and Balde is among the finest of the new generation. At just 21, he already provides Barcelona with blistering width and attacking intent, often playing like an extra winger. Despite some injury setbacks, his pace, intelligence, and versatility make him a crucial figure for both club and country.

6. Alphonso Davies – Bayern Munich / Canada

Known as one of the fastest players in football, Davies’ electrifying pace sets him apart. But he offers far more than raw speed: his dribbling, defensive awareness, and vision elevate his game. Currently sidelined with injury, his return is eagerly awaited by Bayern fans, as few left-backs can match his dynamism.

5. Álex Grimaldo – Bayer Leverkusen / Spain

alex Grimaldo — Vitalii Vitleo / Shutterstock.com

Grimaldo was pivotal in Leverkusen’s historic 2023/24 Bundesliga triumph, posting astonishing numbers for a left-back: 10 goals and 15 assists. His pinpoint deliveries from set pieces and open play make him a constant threat. Even if he never hits those heights again, his consistency and creativity cement his place among the best.

4. Federico Dimarco – Inter Milan / Italy

Dimarco embodies the modern wing-back, balancing attacking output with defensive resilience. Whether overlapping, whipping in crosses, or stepping into a back three, he brings versatility and quality. Despite a tough Champions League final, his consistency at both ends of the pitch proves why he remains one of Europe’s top full-backs.

3. Milos Kerkez – Bournemouth / Hungary

Still just 21, Kerkez has quickly emerged as one of the Premier League’s brightest young defenders. His rapid runs, intelligent positioning, and six assists in the recent season underline his attacking value. Tipped for a move to Liverpool, he could be the long-term successor to Andy Robertson and dominate the position for years.

2. Joško Gvardiol – Manchester City / Croatia

Originally signed as a centre-back, Pep Guardiola has reinvented Gvardiol into a highly effective left-back. His adaptability has been crucial for City, even turning him into one of their most dangerous attacking outlets early in the 2024/25 season. With rumours of a shift back into central defence, Gvardiol’s versatility speaks volumes about his elite talent.

1. Nuno Mendes – Paris Saint-Germain / Portugal

The best left-back in the world right now, Mendes has fulfilled the promise he showed at Sporting. His blend of pace, stamina, and defensive discipline makes him an all-rounder in a position often defined by extremes. Mendes not only nullifies world-class right-wingers but also drives PSG’s attack with relentless energy. At just 22, he looks set to dominate the role for years to come.