Trent Alexander-Arnold, Frimpong, Timber

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

August 25, 2025 Aksel Kryhlmand

The right-back role has undergone a huge transformation over the past two decades. Once dismissed as a thankless job – the position nobody “grew up wanting to play” – today’s right-backs are among the most dynamic footballers in the modern game. They are no longer judged solely on defensive reliability, but also on their attacking output, tactical intelligence, and ability to invert into midfield. Here are FourFourTwo’s top 10 right-backs in the world right now.

10. Pedro Porro – Tottenham Hotspur / Spain

Pedro Porro has been a bright spark since arriving at Spurs. Known for his attacking runs and pinpoint crossing, he thrives in an advanced full-back role that stretches defences and fuels high-intensity football. While his defensive work has been questioned, his offensive contributions more than make up for it, making him a vital asset.

9. Giovanni Di Lorenzo – Napoli / Italy

Napoli’s captain during their historic 2022/23 Scudetto win, Di Lorenzo remains one of Serie A’s most reliable right-backs. After a difficult period with club and country, Antonio Conte’s arrival has revitalised him. At 31, he combines leadership with balance, providing defensive stability and attacking thrust.

8. Daniel Muñoz – Crystal Palace / Colombia

Daniel Munoz — katatonia82 / Shutterstock.com

Muñoz has been a revelation for Crystal Palace under Oliver Glasner. Energetic, versatile, and tactically sharp, he presses high, delivers precise crosses, and tracks back relentlessly. His rise in the Premier League mirrors his international impact, where he plays a key role in Colombia’s backline.

7. Tino Livramento – Newcastle United / England

At just 22, Livramento is already one of the Premier League’s best defenders. Quick, disciplined, and adaptable on either flank, he has cemented himself as a vital piece of Newcastle’s exciting full-back duo with Lewis Hall. With a potential move to Manchester City looming, he could soon rise even higher on this list.

6. Jurrien Timber – Arsenal / Netherlands

Despite suffering a major ACL injury, Timber returned stronger and has been superb for Arsenal. Intelligent on the ball, aggressive in duels, and capable of inverting into midfield, he epitomises Mikel Arteta’s system. His versatility across defence and his mentality have made him a fan favourite at the Emirates.

5. Jeremie Frimpong – Liverpool / Netherlands

Frimpong is a modern wing-back who thrives on attacking freedom. Explosive and direct, he scored 14 goals for Leverkusen’s unbeaten 2023/24 Bundesliga-winning side. Now at Liverpool, his blistering pace and relentless forward runs make him a nightmare for defenders.

4. Denzel Dumfries – Inter Milan / Netherlands

Dumfries has been a consistent force for Inter, combining athleticism with determination. His high-energy wing-back style allows him to dominate both ends of the pitch, closing down wingers while also surging forward. Reliable and relentless, he remains one of Serie A’s standout performers.

3. Jules Koundé – Barcelona / France

Unlike many modern full-backs, Koundé stands out primarily for his defensive excellence. Fast, strong, and intelligent, he is crucial to Barcelona’s high defensive line. Comfortable both centrally and wide, he is a manager’s dream for his versatility and defensive solidity.

2. Trent Alexander-Arnold – Real Madrid / England

Alexander-Arnold revolutionised the right-back role at Liverpool with his extraordinary passing range. Now at Real Madrid, he will have even more attacking talent to supply, including Mbappé and Vinícius Jr. Though criticised for defensive weaknesses, his creativity and vision make him the most high-profile right-back in the world.

1. Achraf Hakimi – Paris Saint-Germain / Morocco

Hakimi tops the list thanks to his unmatched attacking output and consistency. With 23 goal contributions in the 2024/25 season, including nine in the Champions League, he has become one of PSG’s most decisive players. Blessed with pace, stamina, and tactical intelligence, Hakimi remains the complete modern right-back.