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. Andrew Robertson (Liverpool/Scotland)
Although Robertson is no longer at his peak, he remains one of the most reliable left-backs in football. His remarkable crossing ability and relentless work rate continue to be crucial for Liverpool. A key figure under Jürgen Klopp, Robertson holds the record for the most assists by a left-back in Premier League history. His leadership on and off the pitch remains invaluable to both club and country.
•Premier League assists record (as of 2025): 59 assists
9. Riccardo Calafiori (Arsenal/Italy)
Calafiori is one of the standout left-backs in the Premier League. Initially a centre-back, his transition to left-back has been seamless, adding versatility to Arsenal’s defence. His attacking contributions have also been notable, with three goals and two assists this season, including a crucial strike against Manchester City that underlined his growing importance in Mikel Arteta’s system.
8. 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 Mauricio Pochettino.
•2024/25 stats: 5 goals, 3 assists
7. 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: 4 goals, 6 assists
6. 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 continued his progression under Luis Enrique. His ability to combine defensive stability with attacking output makes him a key figure for PSG.
•2024/25 stats: 2 goals, 3 assists
5. 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: 5 goals, 1 assist.
4. 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.
•2023/24 stats:12 goals, 17 assists
•2024/25 stats: 4 goals, 10 assists
3. 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. Despite ongoing transfer speculation, he has committed his future to Bayern by signing a contract extension.
•2024/25 stats: 3 goals, 3 assists
2. 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, 7 assists
1. Federico Dimarco (Inter Milan/Italy)
A key figure in Inter Milan’s Serie A-winning squad last season, Dimarco has cemented his reputation as one of the world’s top left-backs. Comfortable as both a left-back and a left midfielder, his technical ability and attacking contributions make him an invaluable asset. His stunning long-range goal against Frosinone in November highlighted his exceptional quality.
•2024/25 stats: 4 goals, 5 assists
Honourable Mentions
While these players didn’t make the top ten, they have all been outstanding in their roles:
•Lucas Hernández (Paris Saint-Germain/France)
•Antonee Robinson (Fulham/USA)
•Ferland Mendy (Real Madrid/France)
•Lewis Hall (Newcastle United/England)
•Miguel Gutiérrez (Girona/Spain)
•Pervis Estupiñán (Brighton & Hove Albion/Ecuador)
