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Top 10 Right Backs in the World for 2026: Ranked by Performance

The role of the right back has shifted from a purely defensive position to one that demands attacking contributions as well. Players like Achraf Hakimi, Jurrien Timber, and Jules Koundé top the charts in 2026 thanks to their strong defensive skills combined with goal involvement. This list ranks them based on tackles, interceptions, blocks, goals, assists, and their overall influence on matches.

In earlier football eras, forwards dominated conversations while full-backs rarely grabbed headlines. But times have changed drastically, especially in leading leagues where full-backs now play crucial roles in both defense and attack. Legends such as Gary Neville, Dani Alves, and Philipp Lahm paved the way for modern stars like Trent Alexander-Arnold, Hakimi, and Denzel Dumfries, who have become household names.

With the 2025-26 season complete and the World Cup underway, we ranked the top 10 right backs worldwide using a balanced evaluation of offensive and defensive stats.

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 Explained

Our rankings weigh heavily on defensive metrics since stopping opponents remains fundamental for right backs. Tackles, interceptions, and blocks were key indicators. Goal contributions through goals and assists were also considered to reflect modern full-backs' attacking duties. Data was sourced from trusted football analytics platforms like Fbref, Transfermarkt, and Sportsdunia.

Profiles of the Best Right Backs in 2026

Dumfries rose to prominence after moving to PSV Eindhoven in 2018, developing into a strong defender and attack-minded full-back. He played a vital role at Inter Milan before signing for Real Madrid ahead of the World Cup. Although an ankle injury limited his 2025-26 season, he remains a key asset for the Netherlands.

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

Known for his pace and precise passing, Alexander-Arnold transitioned from Liverpool to Real Madrid, providing creative flair down the wing. Injuries hampered his form this season, and his defensive game still requires work, but his attacking impact remains significant.

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

Porro is recognized for his attacking instincts and precise crosses. The Spanish full-back has been consistent for Spurs, contributing goals and assists while helping the club avoid relegation troubles.

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

James emerged from Chelsea's youth ranks to become captain and a key player. Versatile and agile, he sometimes plays midfield but remains effective as a right back. Injury setbacks have occurred, yet he contributed to Chelsea's 2025 FIFA Club World Cup win.

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

Ryerson has impressed in the Bundesliga, known for his aggressive runs and accurate crosses. The Norwegian full-back has provided numerous assists and is an important part of Dortmund’s squad.

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

Originally a midfielder, Nunes has adapted to right back under Pep Guardiola. His blend of pace and physicality improved his defensive game, playing a key role in Manchester City's cup wins.

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

Koundé switched from center back to right back, becoming essential for Barcelona and France. Known for his speed, defensive discipline, and threat on set-pieces, he helped Barcelona secure league and cup titles.

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

Once a midfielder, Llorente now excels as a right back for Atlético Madrid. His energy and all-around ability help him contain top attackers while contributing offensively. Spain relies on him heavily in defense.

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

Timber stands out as a young powerhouse for Arsenal, excelling in defense and attack. Versatile across defensive roles, his aggression and adaptability helped Arsenal end a 24-year title drought. Injury kept him from the 2026 World Cup.

  • Appearances: 44
  • Goals: 4
  • Assists: 6
  • Recoveries/90: 3.92
  • Interceptions/90: 0.83
  • Tackles/90: 2.32

Hakimi is widely regarded as the best right back globally. After spells at Real Madrid, Dortmund, and Inter Milan, he settled at PSG. His lightning speed and precise passes turn defense into attack quickly. Despite injuries, he helped PSG secure multiple trophies and won the CAF African Player of the Year award.

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

FAQs

  • Is Achraf Hakimi the best right back in 2026? Yes, he is ranked as the world's top right back.
  • How many La Liga players are in the top 10 list? Four players from La Liga are included.
  • What are Jules Koundé’s goal and assist stats for 2025-26? He scored 3 goals and made 4 assists.
  • Is there any Bundesliga player among the top right backs? Yes, Julian Ryerson from Borussia Dortmund is featured.