Top 10 Best Right-Backs in the Premier League Right Now (2024)

The Premier League has long been home to some of the finest right-backs in football history. Names like former Manchester City stalwart Pablo Zabaleta, Chelsea’s Branislav Ivanovic, and ex-Manchester United defender-turned-pundit Gary Neville immediately come to mind when reminiscing about the greats of the English top flight. But the list goes far beyond just these few.

In today’s game, the role of the full-back has evolved significantly. Modern right-backs are expected to be as effective in attack as they are in defense, a far cry from the days when their primary duty was simply to stop the opposition.

Right now, the Premier League boasts an impressive array of talent in this position, with players like Trent Alexander-Arnold, Kyle Walker, and Ben White leading the pack. We’ve put together a ranking of the top 10 right-backs currently playing in England’s top division.

Ranking factors

While compiling the top 10 list, the following was taken into account:

• Longevity
• Trophies
• Goals
• Assists
• Defensive ability
• Clean Sheets
• Individual Awards

1. Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool)

There aren’t many full-backs in the league right now better than Trent Alexander-Arnold. As a key playmaker for Liverpool, he’s a constant threat, delivering pinpoint crosses for his forwards and advanced midfielders. His passing and set-piece delivery are on another level, perfectly illustrated by his stunning free-kick against Fulham last season.

Key Stat: At just 25, Alexander-Arnold has already notched up 58 Premier League assists, the second-highest tally by any defender in the league’s history.

While his defensive skills have been questioned over the years, with lapses in concentration costing his team at times, the 2023/24 season saw him become much more reliable at the back. His improved defensive work helped Liverpool lift the Carabao Cup in Jurgen Klopp’s final season. Under Arne Slot’s management, Trent appears to be a more complete player. He recently earned back-to-back Man of the Match awards during Lee Carsley’s first international break as England manager, showing just how far he’s come.

2. Ben White (Arsenal)

Arsenal’s No. 4, Ben White, has showcased his impressive versatility throughout the club’s second-place finish last season by excelling in a position outside his usual role. A natural centre-back, White has been deployed as a right-back under Mikel Arteta, and the 26-year-old has adapted seamlessly. Defensively solid and capable of contributing in attack, he recorded four goals and assists in his 37 Premier League appearances during the 2023/24 season.

With Jurrien Timber sidelined by an ACL injury, White has been a consistent figure on the right, playing a crucial role in Arsenal’s campaign. It remains to be seen how his position may evolve once Timber returns. However, with White recently signing a new contract with the club, it’s clear Arsenal sees him as a key part of their long-term plans.

3. Kyle Walker (Manchester City)

Many might argue that Kyle Walker deserves to be considered the best, especially given his outstanding achievements with Manchester City, particularly in the 2022/23 season, as well as his contributions over the years. The veteran full-back, who has earned 90 caps for England, is rightly regarded as one of the best in the world.

Walker’s incredible speed allows him to shut down some of the top players in the game. Beyond his lightning pace, he’s strong, a solid tackler, and a leader in defense. His trophy haul speaks for itself too—since leaving Tottenham, the 34-year-old has won six Premier League titles and played a key role in City’s treble-winning season. However, as he approaches the final stretch of his career, younger players are beginning to take the spotlight, as his Euro 2024 performances hinted that it might be time for the next generation to step up.

4. Pedro Porro (Tottenham)

While attacking stars like James Maddison, Son Heung-min, and Micky van de Ven have dominated the headlines at Tottenham Hotspur, Pedro Porro has quietly become a key player. The former Manchester City defender has solidified his spot at right-back under Ange Postecoglou, proving to be an essential part of the team.

In the 2022/23 season, Porro contributed three goals and three assists in just 15 games. He improved those numbers in the 2023/24 campaign, racking up seven assists over 35 matches. At just 24 years old, the Spaniard’s influence continues to grow, and his pinpoint deliveries have made him a standout in north London. If Spurs are to end their trophy drought, Porro will undoubtedly play a major role.

5. Diogo Dalot (Manchester United)

When José Mourinho brought Diogo Dalot to Manchester United in 2018, he called him “the best full-back in Europe for his age.” While Dalot hasn’t quite reached that lofty level yet, he has certainly grown into a key figure at Old Trafford. A loan spell at AC Milan from October 2020 to June 2021 helped him develop, and since returning to United, he has put in some excellent performances.

In the 2022/23 season, Erik ten Hag relied heavily on him, featuring Dalot in 42 matches across all competitions. His contributions were pivotal in United securing a Champions League spot for the 2023/24 season and lifting the Carabao Cup. Dalot has continued his impressive growth, cementing his place in the starting lineup. Even club legend Patrice Evra has called him United’s “most important player.”

With all these achievements, some might be left wondering why he isn’t ranked even higher in discussions about top players.

6. Malo Gusto (Chelsea)

When Malo Gusto joined Chelsea from Lyon, many fans expected him to be a backup for Reece James. However, with James struggling with injuries throughout the 2023/24 season, the young French defender has seized the chance to showcase his talents in the first team.

Gusto has quickly become one of the top players in his position in the league. His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively has made him an invaluable asset. With his consistent performances, new manager Enzo Maresca will face the challenge of fitting both Gusto and James into the starting lineup once James is back to full fitness.

7. Aaron Wan-Bissaka (West Ham United)

During the 2022/23 season, it seemed Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s time at Manchester United was nearing an unfortunate end. Struggling for favor under Erik ten Hag, he was frequently replaced by Diogo Dalot in league matches and was even linked with a winter transfer to several Premier League clubs. However, Wan-Bissaka turned things around with a strong finish to the season, ultimately choosing to join West Ham this summer.

Known as ‘The Spider’ for his long limbs and exceptional one-on-one defending, Wan-Bissaka does have some limitations, particularly in his attacking play. Yet, few full-backs can match his defensive prowess. Now at West Ham, he’s finally getting the recognition he deserves after years of being overlooked at Manchester United.

8. Reece James (Chelsea)

Make no mistake, he’s one of the most thrilling full-backs in world football. The Cobham graduate embodies all the traits you’d expect from a top-tier right-back, with Kyle Walker even calling him the most complete player in that role. Defensively, he’s outstanding—able to outmuscle attackers or deliver a perfect tackle. Offensively, he excels as well, with pinpoint crosses that are a dream for strikers. During the 2021/22 season, he provided nine assists and scored five goals, demonstrating his attacking prowess. If he can stay injury-free and secure a consistent run of games, he’ll undoubtedly rise higher on this list.

9. Kieran Trippier (Newcastle United)

Kieran Trippier may not have seemed like an elite full-back during his time at Tottenham Hotspur, but he truly elevated his game in his first full season with Newcastle United. The Englishman became a constant presence on the right side of the Magpies’ defense, featuring in every domestic match. His attacking prowess is exceptional—few can rival his passing ability and set-piece delivery, which consistently pose problems for defenders.

To highlight his impact, only Bruno Fernandes of Manchester United recorded more key passes in the Premier League during the 2023/24 season, according to FBref. Trippier’s on-ball quality remains evident, and he has continued to be a significant attacking threat under Eddie Howe’s guidance. While he may not have reached his peak form last season, he still contributed with 10 assists. At 33 years old, though, Trippier might be keeping a watchful eye as another Newcastle talent is poised to potentially challenge his position.

10. Tino Livramento (Newcastle United)

One of the most underrated players on this list is Newcastle’s Tino Livramento. His name often goes unnoticed in discussions about top full-backs, but his stellar start to the 2024/25 season has shown that the young Englishman is well-prepared to step into Kieran Trippier’s role when the chance arises.

While opportunities were limited for Livramento last season, his competition is aging, making way for the energetic and quick Livramento. His speed and dynamism in both attack and defense promise to inject new vitality into the Magpies’ lineup when he eventually gets his chance.