Top 10 Premier League Right-Backs In History | 2024

In football, right-backs are often the unsung heroes.

These players are tasked with patrolling the entire right side of the pitch, making crucial tackles, providing assists, and occasionally even scoring goals. With the evolution of the game, the right-back position has become even more pivotal, blending defensive solidity with offensive flair.

Let’s dig deep into the world of Premier League right-backs and celebrate the best to have ever played the game.

The right-back role has undergone a significant transformation over the decades.

Initially, these players were primarily defenders. However, the 1990s saw a shift with players like Brazil’s Cafu dazzling the world and inspiring others to blend defence with attack. The Premier League witnessed this evolution firsthand, with stars like Dan Petrescu and Lee Dixon setting new standards.

The Top 10 Premier League Right-Backs

These ten right-backs have not only displayed exceptional skill but have also left an indelible mark on the Premier League. Here’s a closer look at the cream of the crop:

1. Gary Neville

• Appearances: 400
• Clean Sheets: 148 (37%)
• Goals: 5
• Assists: 35
• Clubs: Manchester United (1992-2011)

Gary Neville could have pursued cricket but chose football instead, becoming a Manchester United legend.

He played his entire career at United, contributing to their most successful era with 8 Premier League titles, 3 FA Cups, 2 League Cups, and 2 Champions League wins.

Renowned for his precise tackling, defensive intelligence, and leadership, Neville transitioned smoothly into a career as a pundit, coach, and investor after retirement.

2. Kyle Walker

• Appearances: 378
• Clean Sheets: 124 (34%)
• Goals: 8
• Assists: 32
• Clubs: Tottenham (2009-2017), Manchester City (2017–)

Kyle Walker’s blistering pace and strength have made him a key player for both Tottenham and Manchester City.

His versatility allows him to play center-back when needed. Walker has won multiple Premier League titles and other trophies with City, cementing his place among the best right-backs in the league.

3. Trent Alexander-Arnold

• Appearances: 225
• Clean Sheets: 64 (32%)
• Goals: 15
• Assists: 54
• Clubs: Liverpool (2016–)

Trent Alexander-Arnold is redefining the right-back role with his exceptional passing, crossing, and free-kick abilities.

At Liverpool, he has already won the Champions League and Premier League, and his career is just getting started. Known for his pace and stamina, Trent also enjoys playing chess and engaging in charitable activities off the pitch.

4. Lauren

• Appearances: 184
• Clean Sheets: 63 (34%)
• Goals: 6
• Assists: 8
• Clubs: Arsenal (2000-2007), Portsmouth (2007-2008)

A key member of Arsenal’s “Invincibles,” Lauren was a dependable right-back who won multiple trophies with both Arsenal and Portsmouth.

His strength, intelligence, and reliability made him a standout player. Post-retirement, Lauren has worked as a pundit and Arsenal’s ambassador to Africa.

5. Pablo Zabaleta

• Appearances: 303
• Clean Sheets: 86 (28%)
• Goals: 9
• Assists: 21
• Clubs: Manchester City (2008-2017), West Ham (2017-2020)

Originally a defensive midfielder, Pablo Zabaleta transitioned to right-back and became a stalwart for Manchester City, winning numerous titles.

Known for his leadership and precise tackling, Zabaleta has also represented Argentina with distinction. Since retiring, he has pursued punditry and commentary roles.

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6. Lee Dixon

• Appearances: 305
• Clean Sheets: 114 (37%)
• Goals: 9
• Assists: 19
• Clubs: Arsenal (1988-2002)

Often underrated, Lee Dixon was a key part of Arsenal’s famed defensive line in the 1990s.

He adapted to an attacking role under Arsène Wenger, contributing to league titles in three different decades. Dixon’s incredible fitness allowed him to thrive well into his 30s, securing his legacy as a top defender who could also attack.

Post-retirement, Dixon has enjoyed a successful career as a pundit and commentator.

7. Cesar Azpilicueta

• Appearances: 349
• Clean Sheets: 115 (33%)
• Goals: 10
• Assists: 35
• Clubs: Chelsea (2012–2023)

César Azpilicueta’s reliability and versatility have made him a fixture at Chelsea, where he has won every major club trophy.

His exceptional defensive skills, combined with his ability to contribute offensively, have made him a key player for both club and country.

8. Dan Petrescu

• Appearances: 215
• Clean Sheets: 42 (20%)
• Goals: 23
• Assists: 33
• Clubs: Sheffield Wednesday (1994-1995), Chelsea (1995-2000), Bradford (2001), Southampton (2001-2002)

Petrescu brought flair and attacking abilities to the right-back position in the Premier League.

His goals and assists were crucial for Chelsea’s successes in the late 1990s. After retiring, Petrescu has enjoyed a successful managerial career.

9. Steve Finnan

• Appearances: 236
• Clean Sheets: 83 (35%)
• Goals: 1
• Assists: 14
• Clubs: Fulham (2001-2003), Liverpool (2003-2008)

Steve Finnan’s journey from the lower leagues to the top of English football is remarkable. Known for his dependable defending and excellent crossing ability, Finnan won major trophies with Liverpool, including the 2005 Champions League.

10. Bacary Sagna

• Appearances: 267
• Clean Sheets: 95 (36%)
• Goals: 4
• Assists: 19
• Clubs: Arsenal (2007-2014), Manchester City (2014-2017)

Bacary Sagna was a consistent performer during Arsenal’s challenging years and continued to excel at Manchester City. His defensive prowess and ability to contribute offensively made him a standout right-back. Sagna has since moved into punditry and commentary roles.

Wrapping Up

These right-backs have not only displayed exceptional skill and athleticism but have also contributed significantly to their teams’ successes. Their legacy continues to inspire the next generation of footballers, proving that the right-back position is crucial in modern football.