Left-backs have become an essential component of modern football, bridging the gap between defence and attack. The evolution of the role has led to the emergence of dynamic players who not only defend resolutely but also contribute significantly to build-up play, chance creation, and even goal-scoring.
In the 2024/25 season, several left-backs have stood out with their performances at both club and international levels, proving their importance in the biggest matches. This ranking considers form, attacking contributions, defensive qualities, and overall impact on their teams. From experienced veterans to rising stars, these are the ten best left-backs in the world right now.
10. Lewis Hall (Newcastle/England)
Lewis Hall is quietly building a strong case to be England’s long-term solution at left-back. Still only 20, he’s already showing a level of maturity and composure well beyond his years. Despite his season being disrupted by injury, he made 24 starts for Newcastle and contributed four assists — a solid return for a young full-back still finding his rhythm at the top level. Defensively, his numbers speak volumes: just 1.2 Expected Goals Conceded per 90 and a league-leading 0.99 crosses blocked per 90 among left-backs. Calm on the ball, sharp in the tackle, and always switched on. Hall looks like the real deal.
•2024/25 stats: 4 assists
9. Pervis Estupiñán (Brighton/Ecuador)
Estupiñán has quietly become one of the most reliable full-backs in the league. His pace, intensity, and ability to break forward give Brighton real drive down the left flank. While his primary job is defending, he’s never shy about getting involved higher up the pitch, grabbing two goal contributions this season. He’s not the flashiest name, but his consistency and engine make him a huge part of what Fabian Hürzeler wants from his full-backs.
•2024/25 stats: 1 goal, 1 assists
8. Theo Hernández (AC Milan/France)
A modern full-back in every sense, Theo Hernández is known for his explosive runs down the left flank and his ability to contribute to the attack. One of Milan’s most influential players, Hernández played a vital role last season, contributing to nine league goals. His consistency and attacking output remain crucial under Stefano Pioli.
•2024/25 stats: 5 goals, 7 assists
7. Joško Gvardiol (Manchester City/Croatia)
Signed as the second-most expensive defender in history, Gvardiol has justified the investment with his versatility, physical presence, and tactical intelligence. While naturally a centre-back, his ability to operate as an attacking left-back has added another dimension to Pep Guardiola’s system. This season, his attacking contributions have been impressive, with four goals in Manchester City’s domestic campaign.
•2024/25 stats: 6 goals, 1 assist.
6. Álex Grimaldo (Bayer Leverkusen/Spain)
Grimaldo has enjoyed a sensational spell with Bayer Leverkusen, playing a key role in their unbeaten Bundesliga-winning campaign. Operating more as a left wing-back, he has been one of the most productive attacking full-backs in Europe. Having played no senior football in Spain before moving to Germany, Grimaldo’s performances have firmly established him among the elite.
•2024/25 stats: 4 goals, 12 assists
5. Marc Cucurella (Chelsea/Spain)
Cucurella played a key role in Spain’s UEFA Euro 2024 triumph and has carried that form into Chelsea’s season. Despite facing criticism early in his Premier League career, the Spaniard has proven his worth with his tireless work rate, defensive tenacity, and attacking contributions. His ability to play as both a traditional left-back and an inverted full-back makes him a valuable asset under Enzo Maresca.
•2024/25 stats: 7 goals, 3 assists
4. Alphonso Davies (Bayern Munich/Canada)
The Canadian international remains one of the most electrifying left-backs in the world, combining blistering pace with exceptional dribbling ability. At just 23, Davies has already won five Bundesliga titles and a Champions League, making him one of North America’s greatest football exports. He has committed his future to Bayern by signing a contract extension.
•2024/25 stats: 3 goals, 3 assists
3. Alejandro Balde (Barcelona/Spain)
Despite his young age, Balde has already established himself as an undisputed starter at Barcelona. A hamstring injury in January ruled him out of Spain’s Euro 2024 squad, but his influence on Barcelona’s attacking and defensive structure remains undeniable. Under new coach Hansi Flick, Balde has returned to his best form, showcasing his elite dribbling, composure, and tactical awareness.
•2024/25 stats: 1 goal, 8 assists
2. Federico Dimarco (Inter Milan/Italy)
A key figure in Inter Milan’s Serie A-winning squad last season, Dimarco has established his reputation as one of the world’s top left-backs. Comfortable playing both as a left-back and a left midfielder, his technical quality and attacking contributions make him an invaluable asset. Despite going trophyless in a season that should have been iconic for the club, it doesn’t take away from the level of his performances — he’s a truly unique player.
•2024/25 stats: 4 goals, 8 assists
1. Nuno Mendes (Paris Saint-Germain/Portugal)
Mendes endured a difficult start to life in Paris but has since developed into one of the world’s top full-backs. Initially struggling in a flat back four under Mauricio Pochettino, the Portuguese international thrived as a wing-back under Christophe Galtier and has reached his highest level of progression under Luis Enrique. His ability to combine defensive stability with attacking output makes him a key figure for PSG, and arguably the best left-back in the world.
•2024/25 stats: 5 goals, 5 assists
Honourable Mentions
While these players didn’t make the top ten, they have all been outstanding in their roles:
• Antonee Robinson (Fulham/USA)
• Myles Lewis-Skelly (England/Arsenal)
• Riccardo Calafiori (Arsenal/Italy)
• Ferland Mendy (Real Madrid/France)
• Andrew Robertson (Liverpool/Scotland)
• Lucas Hernández (Paris Saint-Germain/France)
• Miguel Gutiérrez (Girona/Spain)
