Best Full Backs in the World: Full-backs in football have changed a lot recently. They’ve become super important for defense, creating plays, and even joining in on offense. So, we need to figure out who the best full-backs in the world are.
Best Players In The World By Position
In the past, full-backs mainly focused on defending and helping out with attacks from the wings. But now, players like Alexander-Arnold and Joao Cancelo have brought something new to the position. They not only defend but also act like extra midfielders or attackers, making them crucial in modern football.
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Best Full Backs in the World 2024
So, when we’re ranking the best players in the World, we can’t ignore the impact of modern full-backs. They’re not just defenders; they play a big role in shaping the game.
1. Alphonso Davies
- Country: Canada Liberia
- Age: 23
- Club: Bayern Munich
Alphonso Davies is our top pick in the Best Full-backs in the World list. He is recognized for his exceptional speed, dribbling skills, and creative abilities, earning him the nickname “The Roadrunner.” Despite some perceived defensive weaknesses, Davies has made a significant impact in the football world.
He holds the distinction of being the first player born in the 2000s to play in Major League Soccer (MLS), achieved a record-breaking MLS transfer to Bayern Munich in 2019, and played a crucial role in the club’s historic 2019–20 continental treble.
Davies, Recognized as the CONCACAF Men’s Player of the Year in 2021 and 2022, made history at the 2022 FIFA World Cup by scoring Canada’s inaugural goal in the tournament.
Beyond his on-field achievements, Davies stands out as the first soccer player and Canadian ambassador for the United Nations refugee agency, UNHCR, further solidifying his impact beyond the pitch.
2. Trent Alexander-Arnold
- Country: England
- Age: 25
- Club: Liverpool FC
Ranked second on the list of the best full-backs in the World is Trent Alexander-Arnold. His exceptional skills in passing, crossing, and creating assists have earned him a reputation as one of the finest right-backs worldwide, despite some concerns about his defensive abilities.
Early in his career, Alexander-Arnold stood out in the Premier League for his creativity, particularly in delivering goals through early crosses and set-pieces.
Under the tactical guidance of manager Jürgen Klopp, Alexander-Arnold’s role as a right-back involved overlapping runs, precise crossing, and a strong work ethic in tracking back, making him a crucial element in Liverpool’s transitional and counter-attacking style of play.
Despite occasional fluctuations in form, his multifaceted abilities as a creative player set him apart, earning him well-deserved recognition among the best full-backs in the world.
3. Achraf Hakimi
- Country: Morocco Spain
- Age: 25
- Club: Paris Saint-Germain
The third spot on the list of the best full-backs is Achraf Hakimi. At just 25 years old, the Moroccan player has left a mark in every team he’s been a part of, including Real Madrid, Borussia Dortmund, Inter Milan, and currently PSG.
Hakimi is renowned for his offensive prowess, standing out as one of the most impactful wingers in European football. While excelling in creation, particularly in the attack, he acknowledges the need for improvement in his defensive capabilities.
Despite this defensive room for growth, Hakimi, with the world at his feet, holds the potential to become the best full-back globally, especially if he maintains his current performance level. Playing as a right-back for PSG under a new coach, Hakimi is characterized as an enterprising full-back who actively contributes to the team’s play construction, making him a valuable asset.
He won the Ligue 1 in 2021-22 and 2022-23 with Paris Saint-Germain. Additionally, he secured Trophée des Champions titles in 2022 and 2023. These achievements demonstrate his skills at the highest level of football.
4. Nuno Mendes
- Country: Portugal
- Age: 21
- Club: Paris Saint-Germain
Nuno Mendes, ranked 4th among the world’s best full-backs, is celebrated for his offensive prowess, speed, and technical skills. Typically playing as a left-sided attacking full-back or wing-back, he excels in creating threats both from a stationary position and during counter-attacks.
Despite his impressive dribbling and crossing abilities, some critics raise concerns about his defensive decision-making, positioning, and awareness, highlighting areas for improvement.
A product of Sporting CP’s youth academy, Mendes made his first-team debut in 2020 and contributed to the team’s double victory in the Primeira Liga and Taça da Liga in the following year. After a loan spell with Paris Saint-Germain in 2021, Mendes secured a permanent move for €38 million in June 2022.
Despite defensive critiques, Mendes is widely recognized as one of the world’s best full-backs, known for his passing, crossing, and assist contributions.
5. Theo Hernández
- Country: France Spain
- Age: 26
- Club: AC Milan
Ranked 5th among the world’s best full-backs is Theo Hernández. Born in Marseille, France, in 1997, he comes from a footballing family, with his brother Lucas Hernandez being a World Cup winner with France.
Theo began his professional journey at Atlético Madrid, showcasing his talents with dynamic runs and precise crosses. His time at Real Madrid saw ups and downs, but he found his stride at AC Milan, where he became a vital part of the team’s success, contributing significantly to their 2022 Scudetto triumph.
Despite his alleged defensive flaws, Hernández is recognized for his all-around abilities, making him one of the top full-backs globally.
Theo Hernández’s story is one of audacious skill and determination, starting from his early days in Spain to becoming a key player for AC Milan. His attacking flair and defensive commitment have made him a complete and thrilling modern full-back.
6. Ben White
- Country: England
- Age: 26
- Club: Arsenal FC
Ranked as the 6th best full-back globally, Ben White is a defender for Arsenal in the Premier League. While primarily a center-back, he also showcases versatility by playing as a right-back when needed.
White’s professional journey began at the age of 18 with Brighton & Hove Albion in 2016. He gained valuable experience through loan spells with Newport County, Peterborough United, and Leeds United, winning the Championship with Leeds. In 2021, Arsenal signed White in a transfer worth up to £50 million, making him their most expensive defender.
Making his senior international debut for England in 2021 at 23, White has been part of the squads for UEFA Euro 2020 and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Known for his impressive passing, crossing, and assist contributions, White is recognized as one of the best full-backs globally, despite some criticisms of his defensive abilities.
7. Alejandro Balde
- Country: Spain
- Age: 20
- Club: FC Barcelona
Ranked 7th among the world’s best full-backs is Alejandro Balde. He is a rising star in Barcelona’s football scene, making waves with his impressive footwork and solid defensive skills at just 19 years old. Hailing from Barcelona, he joined FC Barcelona at the age of eight, showcasing his talent after progressing through the ranks at RCD Espanyol.
Balde’s incredible speed and technical abilities have earned him a reputation as one of the best left-backs globally.
In his club career, Balde signed a contract renewal with Barcelona in July 2021 until 2024, with a release clause of 500 million euros. He made his official debut for Barcelona’s first team in September 2021, gaining more prominence in the 2022-23 season under coach Xavi.
Internationally, despite being eligible to play for Guinea-Bissau, Balde pledged allegiance to Spain. He received a surprise call-up to the Spain national team for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, making his debut in a win against Costa Rica. While known for his passing, crossing, and assists, some critics point out potential defensive flaws.
8. Reece James
- Country: England
- Age: 24
- Club: Chelsea FC
Reece James is ranked 8th among the world’s best full-backs. He is a standout right-back known for his exceptional technical abilities and dynamic playing style. At just 24 years old, he has rapidly ascended to prominence, particularly under the guidance of former Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel.
James is a key player for Chelsea, showcasing his strength and defensive skills on the right wing, making him a formidable presence. His passing accuracy and refined shooting technique further contribute to his prowess.
Despite alleged defensive flaws, James is recognized globally for his impressive range of passing, crossing, and ability to provide assists.
With a hunger to contribute on both ends of the pitch, James is considered one of the best right-backs in the world, and his bright future suggests that he may currently hold that title.
9. Jeremie Frimpong
- Country: Netherlands Ghana
- Age: 23
- Club: Bayer 04 Leverkusen
Jeremie Frimpong is Ranked 9th among the world’s best full-backs. Starting his youth career at Manchester City, he gained experience in Premier League 2 and the UEFA Youth League. Frimpong made a significant move to Celtic in September 2019, impressing with his electrifying pace and attacking prowess.
He became a fan favorite, contributing to Celtic’s success, including winning the Scottish League Cup in December 2019. Voted Celtic’s Young Player of the Year for the 2019–20 season, he later joined Bayer Leverkusen in January 2021.
Born in the Netherlands with Ghanaian descent, Frimpong is eligible to play for the Netherlands, Ghana, and England. He has represented the Netherlands at various youth levels and made his senior debut in October 2023 during the UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying match against France.
Known for his passing, crossing, and assists, Frimpong is recognized as one of the best full-backs globally, despite some alleged defensive flaws.
10. Federico Dimarco
- Country: Italy
- Age: 26
- Club: Inter Milan
Federico Dimarco is Ranked 10th among the best full-backs. Starting his career with Inter’s youth academy, he made his debut for the club in 2014. Over the years, Dimarco went on loan to various clubs, including Ascoli and Empoli, before being sold to Sion in 2017.
However, Inter exercised a buy-back clause in 2018 and loaned him to Parma. Subsequently, he had loan spells with Hellas Verona before returning to Inter Milan.
Dimarco has made significant contributions to Inter, scoring a crucial goal in the Champions League final in June 2023 and extending his contract until 2027 in December 2023.
Recognized for his passing, crossing, and assist abilities, Dimarco is considered one of the best full-backs globally, despite some alleged defensive flaws.
11. Nahuel Molina
- Country: Argentina
- Age: 25
- Club: Atlético de Madrid
Nahuel Molina is Ranked 11th among the world’s best full-backs. He is a versatile player known for his skills as a right-back or right wing-back for La Liga club Atlético Madrid. Recognized for his exceptional speed, precise crosses, vision, and versatility, Molina is considered one of the top right-backs globally.
Molina’s football journey began with the Barça Juniors Luján sports project, associated with FC Barcelona in Argentina. Although he trained with Barcelona’s youth sections, he officially started his professional career with Boca Juniors in 2016. After loan spells with Defensa y Justicia and Rosario Central, Molina joined Udinese Calcio in 2020 before making a significant move to Atlético Madrid in July 2022.
Internationally, Molina made his debut for the Argentina national team in June 2021 during a World Cup qualifier against Chile. His notable contributions include scoring his first goal in the 2022 World Cup quarter-final against the Netherlands, and helping Argentina become champions.
12. Lucas Hernández
- Country: France Spain
- Age: 27
- Club: Paris Saint-Germain
Ranked 12th among the world’s best full-backs is Lucas Hernández. He is a versatile player known for his defensive skills. Currently playing for Paris Saint-Germain in Ligue 1 as a center-back or full-back, Hernández’s adaptability has been a key asset.
Starting his career at Atlético Madrid, where he reached the UEFA Champions League final and won the 2018 Europa League, he later joined Bayern Munich, achieving a treble in his first season.
Hernández, a French international since 2018, played a crucial role in France’s 2018 FIFA World Cup victory and has participated in UEFA Euro 2020 and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Despite alleged defensive flaws, Hernández is acknowledged for his excellent range of passing, crossing, and assist abilities, cementing his status as one of the world’s top full-backs. In 2023, he made a move to Paris Saint-Germain from Bayern Munich.
13. Pedro Porro
- Country: Spain
- Age: 24
- Club: Tottenham Hotspur
Pedro Porro is ranked 13th among the world’s best full-backs. He is a right-back or right-wing-back for Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur. Starting his career with Girona’s reserve team Peralda, Porro joined Manchester City in 2019 for a reported fee of €13 million (£11 million).
Loaned to Real Valladolid and later to Sporting in the Portuguese Primeira Liga, he achieved success with Sporting by winning the Primeira Liga and Taça da Liga. His impressive performance led to a permanent transfer.
Porro was part of the squad for the 2021 UEFA Nations League Finals, where Spain finished as the runner-up.
14. Oleksandr Zinchenko
- Country: Ukraine
- Age: 27
- Club: Arsenal FC
Oleksandr Zinchenko is ranked 14th among the world’s best full-backs. He is a versatile player for Premier League club Arsenal, where he plays as a left-back or midfielder. Starting his career at Russian Premier League team Ufa, Zinchenko joined Manchester City in 2016 for a fee of around £1.7 million.
Initially an attacking midfielder, he transitioned into a left-back under the guidance of Pep Guardiola. During his time with Manchester City, Zinchenko achieved considerable success, winning four Premier League titles, four EFL Cups, and an FA Cup.
In July 2022, he transferred to Arsenal for a cost of £30 million. He has been a full Ukrainian international since 2015, and he played for his country in the UEFA Euro 2020.
He is establishing himself as one of the best full-backs globally.
15. Destiny Udogie
- Country: Italy Nigeria
- Age: 21
- Club: Tottenham Hotspur
Destiny Udogie is ranked 15th among the world’s best full-backs. He is a left-back for Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur. Starting his career in the Hellas Verona youth system, Udogie made his Serie A debut in 2020. He later joined Udinese on loan in 2021, where he made 37 appearances primarily as a left wingback, scoring five goals.
In August 2022, Tottenham Hotspur secured Udogie on a permanent transfer until 2027, with an immediate loan back to Udinese for the 2022–23 season. Udogie made his debut for Tottenham in August 2023, scoring his first Premier League goal in December. He extended his contract with the club to 2030.
Internationally, Udogie, born in Italy of Nigerian descent, made his debut for Italy U21 in 2021 and received his first call-up to the senior national team in October 2023.
Known for his impressive range of passing, crossing, and assists, Udogie is recognized as one of the best full-backs globally, despite alleged flaws in his defensive ability.
16. João Cancelo
- Country: Portugal
- Age: 29
- Club: FC Barcelona
João Cancelo is ranked 16th among the best full-backs. He is renowned for his speed, energy, and offensive prowess, particularly his technique, dribbling skills, creativity, and crossing ability. Known to play as a full-back or winger, Cancelo is typically positioned on the right side.
His time at Manchester City solidified his reputation as one of Europe’s premier full-backs, even though some criticize his tactical sense, positioning, and defensive skills.
Following a loan to Valencia, he joined Serie A’s Inter Milan, earning a place in Serie A’s Team of the Year during the 2017–18 season. A move to Juventus in 2018 preceded a successful stint, winning the league and Supercoppa Italiana in his debut season.
In 2019, Cancelo joined Manchester City, contributing significantly to three Premier League titles, an EFL Cup, and the UEFA Champions League. He made his senior debut for Portugal in 2016 and was part of the squad that won the 2019 UEFA Nations League.
17. Rico Lewis
- Country: England
- Age: 19
- Club: Manchester City
Rico Lewis is ranked 17th among the world’s best full-backs. He has swiftly risen to prominence as a versatile player for Premier League club Manchester City.
He made his Premier League debut in August 2022 and became City’s youngest-ever Champions League scorer in November of the same year, marking a historic moment at just 17 years and 346 days. Lewis contributed significantly to Manchester City’s success in the 2022–23 season, winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and the Champions League, achieving a rare domestic and continental treble.
His skills in passing, crossing, and providing assists have earned him recognition among the world’s best full-backs, despite criticisms of potential defensive flaws.
In addition to his club success, Lewis has made strides on the international stage, making appearances for England’s youth teams before receiving his first call-up to the senior national team in November 2023. His debut against North Macedonia in the UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying matches showcased his promising talent and contributed to England securing top seeding for the tournament.
18. Luke Shaw
- Country: England
- Age: 28
- Club: Manchester United
Ranked 18th among the world’s best full-backs is Luke Shaw. He is a highly regarded left-back known for his attacking style of play. Often compared to former Southampton youth product Gareth Bale, Shaw has earned praise for his speed, decision-making, and defensive skills.
Recognized as one of the best left-backs globally, he received favorable comparisons to legendary Brazil left-back Roberto Carlos during England’s Euro 2020 Final run.
Shaw began his career in Southampton’s youth system, making his first-team debut in January 2012. In June 2014, he joined Manchester United for a then-world record transfer fee of £30 million for a teenager.
Shaw made his senior international debut for England in 2014, contributing significantly to the team, including scoring in the UEFA Euro 2020 final, the fastest goal in the history of the UEFA European Championship final.
19. Diogo Dalot
- Country: Portugal
- Age: 24
- Club: Manchester United
Ranked 19th among the world’s best full-backs is Diogo Dalot. He is a talented player who serves as a full-back for Premier League club Manchester United.
Hailing from the Porto youth system, Dalot debuted professionally with the club’s B team in January 2017, later making his first-team debut in a Taça de Portugal game in October 2017.
In June 2018, Manchester United acquired him for a reported fee of €22 million (£19 million). During the period from October 2020 to June 2021, Dalot was loaned to Serie A club Milan.
Recognized for his exceptional range of passing, crossing, and assist capabilities, Dalot is esteemed as one of the premier full-backs globally, despite alleged defensive shortcomings.
20. Andrew Robertson
- Country: Scotland
- Age: 29
- Club: Liverpool FC
Ranked 20th among the world’s best full-backs is Andrew Robertson, the Scottish professional footballer who plays as a left-back for Premier League club Liverpool and captains the Scotland national team.
Since joining Liverpool, Robertson has consistently been recognized as one of the top left-backs globally. His vision, athleticism, and physical prowess contribute to his reputation. Robertson’s career began with Queen’s Park in 2012, and he joined Dundee United a year later. After a notable debut season, he moved to Hull City in 2014.
Robertson has achieved significant success with Liverpool, winning the Champions League in 2019, the Premier League in 2020, the UEFA Super Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup in the same year.
His contributions in the 2018–19 Premier League season earned him a place in the PFA Team of the Year.
21. Alejandro Grimaldo
- Country: Spain
- Age: 28
- Club: Bayer 04 Leverkusen
Ranked 21st among the best full-backs is Alejandro Grimaldo. He is currently play as a left-back for Bundesliga club Bayer Leverkusen. Born in Valencia, Grimaldo began his career with Barcelona’s youth system in 2008, making his B-team debut in 2011 as the youngest player ever in a Segunda División game.
After a serious knee injury, he contributed to Barcelona B’s third-place finish in the following season. Grimaldo moved to Benfica in 2016, winning several titles, including the Primeira Liga and Taça de Portugal. In 2023, he joined Bayer Leverkusen on a free transfer.
Grimaldo represented Spain at the under-21 level and received his first senior national team call-up in November 2023. Known for his exceptional passing, crossing, and assists, Grimaldo is considered one of the top full-backs globally, despite alleged defensive shortcomings.
22. Lutsharel Geertruida
- Country: Netherlands Curacao
- Age: 23
- Club: Feyenoord Rotterdam
Lutsharel Geertruida, ranked 22nd among the best full-backs. He is a versatile player for Eredivisie club Feyenoord, excelling as a right-back, center-back, or defensive midfielder.
Born in Rotterdam, Geertruida rose through Feyenoord’s youth ranks, making his professional debut in 2017. His breakthrough came in the 2019-20 season, with increased playing time and notable contributions, including his first professional goal in September 2020.
Geertruida extended his Feyenoord contract until 2024, playing a pivotal role in their 2022-23 Eredivisie title.
Geertruida, of Curaçaoan descent, represents the Netherlands. He received his first senior national team call-up in March 2023 for Euro 2024 qualifiers, showcasing his prowess in passing, crossing, and assists while being recognized as one of the best full-backs, despite alleged defensive shortcomings.
23. Pervis Estupiñán
- Country: Ecuador Spain
- Age: 25
- Club: Brighton & Hove Albion
Ranked 23rd among the best full-backs is Pervis Estupiñán. He serves as a left-back for Premier League club Brighton & Hove Albion. His football journey includes a notable spell at Villarreal, where he contributed to the squad’s victory in the 2020–21 UEFA Europa League and reached the semi-finals of the 2021–22 UEFA Champions League.
Estupiñán made a significant move to Brighton & Hove Albion in August 2022, signing a five-year contract. In his debut season, he showcased his skills with assists and goals, earning recognition as one of the premier full-backs globally, despite some alleged defensive shortcomings.
His dynamic performances include key contributions in the FA Cup and the Premier League, making him a valuable asset for Brighton & Hove Albion.
24. Tino Livramento
- Country: England Scotland
- Age: 21
- Club: Newcastle United
Ranked 22nd among the best full-backs is Tino Livramento. He is currently plays as a full-back for Premier League club Newcastle United. Livramento initially gained recognition at Chelsea, where he was named the academy player of the year for the 2020–21 season.
Despite recovering from an ACL injury, he continued to impress at Southampton. In August 2023, Livramento joined Newcastle United, signing a five-year contract for a reported initial fee of £32 million plus add-ons.
His versatile skills, particularly in passing, crossing, and creating assists, have established him as one of the premier full-backs globally.
25. Benjamin Pavard
- Country: France
- Age: 27
- Club: Inter Milan
Ranked 25th among the best full-backs is Benjamin Pavard. He has been a consistent and reliable player, particularly shining in his defensive duties for Bayern Munich.
Beginning his career at Lille, he moved to VfB Stuttgart in 2016, winning the 2. Bundesliga in his debut season. His success continued when he joined Bayern Munich in January 2019, achieving a historic sextuple in 2020.
In the summer of 2023, Pavard made a move to Inter Milan. On the international stage, he made his debut for France in November 2017, winning the 2018 FIFA World Cup and the 2020–21 UEFA Nations League.
Pavard is renowned for his impressive skills in passing, crossing, and providing assists, positioning him as one of the premier full-backs globally, despite some alleged defensive shortcomings.
