Left-backs are a critical component of modern football, bridging the gap between defense and attack. The evolution of this role has given rise to dynamic players who can defend stoutly, contribute to build-up play, and create or score goals. In the 2024/25 season, several left-backs have stood out for their performances at club and international levels, proving their importance in some of the biggest games.
From experienced veterans to emerging stars, this list ranks the ten best left-backs in the world right now, based on their current form, attacking contributions, defensive abilities, and impact on their teams. Whether through goals, assists, or sheer defensive solidity, these players have excelled in their roles, making them indispensable assets to their clubs and countries.
10. Riccardo Calafiori (Arsenal/Italy)
One of the best left-backs in the Premier League before his unfortunate injury, Riccardo Calafiori has been solid for Arsenal. Despite scoring only one goal this season, that solitary strike came against Manchester City in a crucial fixture for Arsenal. His performance that day underlined his importance to Mikel Arteta’s system.
Attacking stats this season: 1 goal, 1 assist.
9. Marc Cucurella (Chelsea/Spain)
A hero for Spain during their victorious UEFA Euro campaign, Marc Cucurella has carried that form into his performances for Chelsea. Despite facing criticism from football pundits like Gary Neville, who doubted his impact at Stamford Bridge, Cucurella continues to excel in both defensive and attacking roles. His work rate, tenacity, and aggression make him a valuable asset for the Blues.
Attacking stats this season: 22 games, 2 goals, 2 assists.
8. Andrew Robertson (Liverpool/Scotland)
While he may not be at the peak of his powers, Andrew Robertson remains integral to Liverpool and is still one of the best left-backs in the league. Known for his incredible crossing ability and relentless energy, Robertson holds the record for the most assists by a left-back in Premier League history. His experience and leadership on the pitch are unmatched.
Attacking stats this season: 1 assist.
7. Destiny Udogie (Tottenham/Italy)
Now in his second season with Tottenham after his career-defining move from Udinese, Destiny Udogie has been a revelation. Tottenham’s system allows him the freedom to push forward and support the attack while maintaining his defensive solidity. However, injuries have been a concern, and he is currently sidelined with a hamstring issue, expected to return by late February.
Attacking stats this season: 2 goals.
6. Federico Dimarco (Inter Milan/Italy)
At 27 years old, Federico Dimarco has solidified his reputation as a world-class left-back. Since joining Inter Milan in the 2021/22 season, Dimarco has been remarkably consistent. A crucial part of Inter’s Serie A-winning team last season, Dimarco combines defensive reliability with attacking flair. His stunning long-range goal against Frosinone in November exemplified his technical ability.
Attacking stats this season: 3 goals, 4 assists.
5. Alphonso Davies (Bayern Munich/Canada)
One of North America’s greatest football exports, Alphonso Davies has used his blistering pace and exceptional dribbling ability to cement his place as one of the best left-backs in the world. At just 23, he has already won five Bundesliga titles and a Champions League with Bayern Munich. As Davies enters the final year of his Bayern contract, clubs like Real Madrid and Chelsea are reportedly circling.
Attacking stats this season: 1 goal, 3 assists.
4. Alejandro Balde (Barcelona/Spain)
Despite his young age, Alejandro Balde has already proven himself as a must-start player for every coach he has worked under. A hamstring injury in January denied him a chance to compete in Spain’s Euro 2024 squad, but his impact on Barcelona’s starting XI is undeniable. Under the guidance of new coach Hansi Flick, Balde has returned to his remarkable 2022/23 form, showcasing his dribbling ability and defensive acumen.
Attacking stats this season: 1 goal, 4 assists.
3. Theo Hernández (AC Milan/France)
Known for his marauding runs and exceptional overlapping play, Theo Hernández remains one of the most productive defenders in Europe. His ability to contribute to attacks, coupled with his defensive stability, makes him a key player for AC Milan. Last season, Hernández contributed to nine league goals and continues to be a central figure in Milan’s attacking strategy under Stefano Pioli.
Attacking stats this season: 3 goals, 4 assists.
2. Joško Gvardiol (Manchester City/Croatia)
Manchester City made Joško Gvardiol the second-most expensive defender of all time, and he has justified the investment. At just 22 years old, Gvardiol combines his physical presence with an outstanding positional sense, excelling as both a center-back and a left-back. His attacking contributions this season have been impressive, with four goals during Manchester City’s Premier League campaign.
Attacking stats this season: 4 goals.
1. Álex Grimaldo (Bayer Leverkusen/Spain)
Currently the best-performing left-back in the world, Álex Grimaldo has had a sensational season with Bayer Leverkusen. The Spanish international won Euro 2024 and helped Leverkusen secure an unbeaten Bundesliga title, along with other domestic trophies. Known for his crossing ability, set-piece mastery, and attacking instinct, Grimaldo’s contributions in the final third are exceptional.
Last season, he scored 12 goals and provided 17 assists, and he has maintained that momentum with 3 goals and 7 assists this season. Despite never playing senior football in Spain, Grimaldo’s move to Leverkusen from Benfica has cemented his place among the elite.
Attacking stats this season: 3 goals, 7 assists.
NOTABLE MENTIONS
- Lucas Hernandez
Ferland Mendy
Miguel Gutierrez
Pervis Estupinan
David Raum
Antonee Robinson
Nuno Mendesdes
