Who is the Best Left Back in the World? Ranking the Top 20 Defenders Playing Today

The left back position has always been one of the most challenging and least appreciated roles in all of football. And over the course of the past 20-30 years, we have seen a stark transformation in what the role entails.

Whether it’s the more recent inverted left back, who tucks in as a third centre back, or a marauding left wing back, who skins the opposition backline before whipping in killer crosses, the left back position continues to play a prominent tactical role in modern football.

The modern left back is a key cog in the ever-changing wheel of football management and tactical acumen. There are a wealth of key attributes that players need to master to be among the best left backs in the world. I’ve taken the 5 attributes I believe are the most valuable and important for a player to be classed as the world’s best left back, and ranked each one out of 10 for each player:

• Positional awareness
• Defending
• Speed
• Stamina
• Technical

Being able to read danger, be aware of surroundings, making themselves available for passes, and developing a strong link with their teammates are also essential components as well. All of the players on my list will possess core left back attributes, whilst the really elite ones will be masters of their craft.

As a bonus, at the end of the article, I have assessed three of the most legendary and iconic left backs ever to grace the beautiful game. Left backs who we at Footy Samba feel helped to define the role, and who would all be in for a shout for the accolade of the all-time best left back in the Premier League. For now, let’s take a look at what makes a player the best left back in the world.

Be sure to read our article- The Definitive List of the Best Right Backs in the World.

What Makes a Player the Best Left Back in the World?

So what makes a player the best left back in the world? Well, this is entirely subjective, of course, but there are certain requirements that the best left backs in the world must possess. Positional awareness, the ability to anticipate both attacks from the opposition, and counterattacks from teammates are essential. Flexibility both in and out of possession is also a key component of being able to play the role effectively.

Defensive solidarity is essential, but the modern left back must also possess great physical attributes, as well as a strong reading of the game. Additionally, an offensive mindset in transition allows for the player to become a second left winger, and this is an important part of a team’s dynamic.

Keeping this in mind, let’s check out my list of the best left backs in the world. These are players who could all be viewed among the best left backs in the world. Though it may bring us no closer to definitively deciding who is the world’s best left back, this list should certainly prove illuminating. Let’s take a look!

Meet the Top 20 left backs in the world: Can one of them be crowned as the best ever?

So, now let’s take a look at the best left backs in the world right now. Of course, it is likely that the best left back in the world 2023 could wind up being different to the best left back in the world for 2024, as players explode and have breakout seasons. Here are some of the current shining lights in the left back position right now.

Philipp Max

Philipp Max- remarkable attacking threat (source: Imago)

Attacking threat – 15 goals and 27 assists across 4 seasons in the Bundesliga.

In the Bundesliga for Augsburg, Max was an impressive sight, registering 14 goal contributions in the 2019/20 season, as he helped the Bavarian side avoid relegation.

He then moved to the Eredivisie, spending 3 seasons at PSV Eindhoven, where he won the KNVB Cup, before his impressive form led to a recent move back to the Bundesliga on loan at Eintracht Frankfurt, a move that has been made permanent.

Though operating at a lower level than some of the more elite players on this list, Max is solid if unremarkable defensively, but going forward is where he really shines.

Extremely versatile, Max enjoyed a free role at Augsburg, and could have a similar license to roam at Frankfurt. Known for his link-up play and high-pressing game, Max will be hoping his star can rise further now he’s back in Germany.

Main weakness: Max’s main weakness is that he is not a great passer of the ball. In his standout season (2019/20) he had a pass accuracy of just 67%, and was caught out a lot when attempting long passes.

Joakim Mæhle

Joakim Mæhle- Intelligent on the pitch (source: Imago)

Interceptions, 88th percentile

A shining light during Denmark’s eventful fairytale run to the Euro 2020 semi finals, Mæhle has become a mainstay in the left back slot at international level.

His form for his country also earned him a big money move from Genk in Belgium to Serie A with Atalanta, where his tenacity, intelligence off the ball, and natural athleticism have made him a core part of Gina Piero Gasperini’s vibrant I Nerazzurri side.

His attacking output is fine, and his defensive work is good as well, making him a solid player all round. He likes to play short passes and work well with teammates to create space and ensure better ball retention, whilst his imposing 6’1” frame makes him a very real threat from set pieces.

Main weakness: Mæhle is a pretty well-rounded player, but the weakest part of his game would appear to be his tackling, with just 47% of ground duels won (2020/21 season), despite his imposing physique.

David Raum

David Raum- Technically gifted (source: Imago)

45.63 passes Bundesliga 2022/23 (74th percentile)

Raum rose to attention with his blistering performance for Hoffenheim in the 2021/22 season, which was a testament to his attacking prowess. The Nuremberg native registered 3 goals and 13 assists as Hoffenheim secured an impressive mid-table finish, and Raum’s explosive displays earned him a move to Champions League side RB Leipzig, where he won the DFK-Pokal last season.

There is no question that Raum is one of the best attacking left backs in the world, and he is certainly at the right team to suit his style of play. And, with 18 caps for the German national side since 2018, he will be hoping to make that left back spot his own in the coming seasons.

Main weakness: Despite his attacking prowess, Rau has work to do defensively, and his biggest weakness is his ability in one-on-one situations.

Nathan Aké

Nathan Aké- Mr. Reliable (source: Imago)

Only dribbled past 3 times in the season Premier League 2022/23 (88th percentile)

One of the more surprising transfers of recent times came when Manchester City paid Bournemouth for £41 million in August 2020. But the move proved to be a shrewd one from Pep Guardiola, as it brought a much-needed defensive stability to a City side that were breathtakingly effective going forward, but liable to encounter problems on the counter attack.

Naturally a centre back, Aké’s calm and collected nature on the ball, and focus on the more defensive elements of the game saw him secure the left back berth from Joao Cancelo.

When City are defending, Aké is responsible for covering the left hand side of the pitch. Whilst he’s never going to offer a technical threat, he’s intelligent, strong, and reliable in one-on-one situations, and good for blocks and tackles. All this makes him a well-rounded addition to our list.

Main weakness: At 5’11” Aké’s main weakness is his aerial ability, which sees him lose many of his aerial duels, and this is an area he will look to improve upon.

Pervis Estupiñán

Pervis Estupiñán- Creative dynamo (source: Imago)

According to Footy Stats he had 0.26 expected assists per 90 mins: 2022/23 season (92nd percentile)

The Brighton and Hove Albion left back proved to be a revelation in his breakout season on England’s south coast, and has fast become one of the best left backs in the Premier League. Known for his pace, attacking prowess, and impressive strength, the Ecuadorian has fast become a lynchpin of the Seagulls’ thrilling attacking evolution under Roberto De Zerbi.

With just one Premier League season under his belt, Estupiñán has acclimated well to English football, and has brought the strengths that made him such a success at Villarreal. The 25-year-old ranked as the second most proficient dribbler among all La Liga defenders. And with 7 attacking returns in his first Premier League season, the future is bright for this rising star.

Major weakness: Though Estupiñán is a thrilling prospect going forward, he does exhibit poor defensive awareness, which he will need to work on to really become an elite left back.

Leonardo Spinazzola

Leonardo Spinazzola- Creative presence (source: Imago)

Expected assists output of 0.24 per 90 mins for Serie A 2022/23 season (89th percentile).

Playing a key role in Italy’s Euro 2020 triumph, Spinazzola’s overlapping runs and creative acumen spearheaded Roberto Mancini’s tactical plans. And, despite recent long-term injury issues, the Roma left back looks back to his best.

Naturally a right-footed player, Spinazzola is quick, athletic, and known for his excellent physical attributes.

His versatility has made him a core part of Jose Mourinho’s plans, and he played a key role in Roma’s run to last season’s Europa League final. Well regarded for his anticipation, aerial ability, and dribbling skills, he is a very well-rounded player, and one of the best left backs in the world right now.

Main weakness: His main weakness is his tackling proficiency, which often sees him lose personal duels and commit unnecessary fouls.

Luke Shaw

Luke Shaw- Reliable (source: Imago)

Dispossessed just 0.28 times per 90 mins Premier League 2022/23 (74th percentile)

Despite an injury-plagued start to life at Manchester United, Luke Shaw has quickly established himself as the side’s most important defensive asset.

Acclaimed for his off the ball work, overlapping runs, and set piece delivery, Shaw has looked revitalised under new manager Erik Ten Hag, and is staking a claim for being considered one of the best left backs in the world.

Such is the versatility of the former Southampton man, that he has even filled in as an auxiliary centre back at times for Man Utd. Enjoying a wonderful Euros with England, and scooping silverware last season at club level, the future is bright for Shaw, and he could well climb this list in the season’s to come.

Main weakness: His main weakness is his inability to track back effectively, largely due to his lack of pace, which sees him caught on when facing counter attacks.

Jose Gaya

Jose Gaya- defensive dynamo (source: Imago)

2.72 tackles & 0.76 interceptions per 90 La Liga 2022/23 (93rd percentile)

Perhaps the one shining light of recent times for Valencia, Gaya has long been regarded as one of the leading left backs in the world. Indeed, the club captain has made over 300 competitive appearances for Los Che, winning the 2018/19 Copa del Rey in the process.

His consistency and attacking prowess have made him one of his country’s biggest talents, and only the enduring brilliance of Jordi Alba prevented him gaining more international caps.

Despite tumultuous times on and off the field for Valencia, Gaya has consistently put up strong numbers, and continues to be the talisman for a side looking to rebuild and find its way back. At 28, he still has several years left at the top, and is sure to appear on more of these lists in the future.

Main weakness: His main weakness lies in his ability to mark players effectively, which can leave the backline exposed and vulnerable to attacks.

Mathias Olivera

Mathias Olivera- Tackling maestro (source: Imago)

2.32 successful tackles per 90 Serie A 2022/23 (85th percentile)

Uruguayan Olivera has been a key component of Napoli’s meteoric rise, and was instrumental in the team capturing the Scudetto for only the 3rd time in their history.

Despite only one season in Italy under his belt, Olivera enjoyed 5 successful seasons in Spain for Getafe, where his stock rose, and his reliability and defensive acumen earned him a move to one of Europe’s most thrilling sides.

Combining a defensive grit and determination, with South American flair and impetuousness, Olivera is one of the most exciting left backs on this list, and the perfect fit for this relentless Napoli team.

He also elevated the game of teammate and rival left back Mário Rui, who misses out on our list. Olivera has all the attributes to become a Napoli legend, provided he can stay fit and hungry.

Main weakness: His main weakness is that his eagerness to attack as often as possible can lead to him being caught out and dribbled past during counter attacks.

Federico Dimarco

Federico Dimarco- reads the game well (source: Imago)

reads the game well – dribbled past just 7 times, Serie A 2022/23 season (79th percentile)

Dimarco’s breakout season came in 2021/22, as Inter did a domestic cup double and finished runners-up in Serie A. Last season made the left back spot his own, playing 33 times in the league and 11 times in Europe as Inter reached their first Champions League final for the first time since 2010.

Dimarco played an integral role in how the team evolved tactically, and brought an extra dimension to the team.

His versatility allows him to play right back as well as left back, and he is particularly known for his pace, stamina, reading of the game, and his attacking capabilities. At the age of 25, it is unlikely that he will develop considerably more than he has, but he is already in the conversation of the best right backs in the world, and will be hoping he can stay there.

Main weakness: His main weakness is the fact he is ineffective at aerial duels,leaving him vulnerable to direct styles of play, and balls over the top into his channel.

Oleksandr Zinchenko

Oleksandr Zinchenko- Flair on the ball (source: Imago)

Pass completion rate of 87.89% Premier League 2022/23 season (94th percentile)

The Ukrainian utility player’s move from Manchester City to Arsenal raised a few eyebrows, but what was more surprising was how Zinchenko thrived at left back, despite being a midfielder by trade.

Though he’s never going to make a list of best playmaking midfielders, Zinchenko’s tenacity and versatility made him a stand out option in midfield. So it was surprising when he excelled in the left back slot for Mikel Arteta’s men, dictating play, and drifting centrally to provide more creative options.

Though his offensive stats have been lacking, his work in the build-up to attacks has proven invaluable, along with his discipline and ball progression.

Zinchenko was a big part of the reason behind Arsenal’s title challenge last season, as the Gunners facing off against Manchester City became one of the best Premier League rivalries of recent times. Expect the 26-year-old to be a mainstay for Arsenal again next season.

Main weakness: His concentration and anticipation in defensive positions can prove to be his biggest weakness, and this is an area of his game that he needs to improve.

Raphael Guerreiro

Raphael Guerreiro- top goal provider (source: Imago)

12 assists in 27 games 2022/23 Bundesliga (99th percentile)

Perhaps one of the most underrated names on our list, Guerreiro has a drive and dynamism that makes him one of the most thrilling players to watch. In 7 years at Dortmund he racked up an impressive 224 appearances across all competitions, scoring 40 goals. Initially deployed as a midfielder, the diminutive Portuguese has made the switch to left back effortlessly.

Whilst he still possesses much of the attacking flair that made him a great midfield cog for Dortmund, he has added poise and guile to his defensive game as well.

Another of the top Bundesliga players to be snapped up by Bayern, it is unclear how much he will play at left back, given his competition is Alphonso Davies. But his versatility and ability makes him one of h the world’s best left backs, and more than deserving of a place on this list.

Main weakness: His main weaknesses come defensively, specifically with his pressing ability, which ranked as low as 3rd percentile in 20-21 and 21-22 seasons.

Jordi Alba

Jordi Alba-Passing ace (source: Imago)

1222 passes made in La Liga 2022/23 (99th percentile

Once regarded as the world’s best left back, and for a time arguably in the running for La Liga’s best left back of all time, Alba’s star has waned in recent times, but he is still one of the biggest names on our list.

Despite the struggles Barca have faced over the past few years, the Spain captain has continued to stand out among Europe’s elite. With his composure, agility, technical ability, and creative contributions, he helped Barca to their 27th league title last season.

Despite being Barca’s second-highest paid player in 2022-23, as per Statista, his contract was terminated a year early, and he will join one of the world’s best strikers in former teammate Lionel Messi when he signs for Inter Miami.

Though he is dropping down a few levels, at 34 there is no doubt Alba still possesses some of the attributes that made him the best left back of the 2010s.

Main weakness: His main weakness is his heading, which causes issues when he has to deal with a lot of crosses from the middle, as well as from the opposition’s left-sided players.

Ben Chilwell

Ben Chilwell-crossing whizz (source: Imago)

5.70 crosses per 90 mins Premier League 2022/23 (95th percentile)

At one time Chilwell was regarded among the best left backs in the world, and was in the argument for best left back in the Premier League, but then injuries halted his progress.

If the former Leicester man can remain relatively injury free, and find the form that earned him his big money move to Chelsea, he might well establish himself as the world’s best left back, and even among the top 10 best Premier League players of all-time in his position.

His attacking capabilities are coupled with a strong understanding of the game, and intelligent positional play. Whether he can get together a run of games is another matter, but on his day, there are few left backs in world football who can match Chilwell in full flight.

Main weakness: Chilwell is an awfully good player and excels in many areas, but his main weakness is his decision-making, particularly under pressure, which can lead him into problems in games.

Nuno Mendes

Nuno Mendes- great on the ball (source: Imago)

Pass completion rate of 87.12% for the Ligue 1 2022/23 season (86th percentile)

PSG left back Mendes is just 20 years old, but plays with the maturity and composure of a much older player.

Highly revered (and feared) for his offensive capabilities, Mendy has been instrumental in creating a wealth of chances for PSG’s attacking talent. And with one of the top 10 best strikers in the world in Kylian Mbappe to feed, the Portuguese’s attacking ability is vital to his side’s goal-scoring threat.

His explosiveness, pinpoint crosses, and ability to play in a flat back four, or higher up in a back five, makes him the perfect threat down PSG’s left flank.

The young lad also appears to have the drive and desire to get better, and this will serve him well at such a young age, and in a few years time he could top our list of best left backs in the world.

Main weakness: Though he has enormous potential, and could wind up being the best in the world, he needs to work on his tactical reading of the game, particularly defensively, to really elevate his talent.

Alejandro Balde

Alejandro Balde- flair player (source: Imago)

1.99 successful take-ons per 90 mins La Liga 2022/23 (96th percentile)

Barcelona have gone through something of a rebuild in recent times, and when Xavi took over, it was clear a replacement would be needed for elder statesman Jordi Alba.

Luckily La Masia is still churning out wonderkids, and Balde is the latest name to merge from Barca’s famed academy. At the age of just 19, he has added youth, energy, and exuberance to the backline, and played a key part in helping the club win La Liga last season.

Balde is powerful, rich in technical ability, possesses good pace, and has an intelligence and understanding of the game that belies his young age.

His performances for Barca have earned him a spot on the Golden Boy shortlist, and the sky’s the limit for this young superstar.

Main weakness: Balde’s main weakness right now is his anticipation and reading of defensive situations, but this will improve with time and age, and can really help elevate his game.

Ferland Mendy

Ferland Mendy-Dominates his flank (source: Imago)

Dribbled past just 7 times in 2022/23 season (66th percentile)

Taking over from Real Madrid legend Marcelo in the left back slot is pressure that would swallow most players, but Ferland Mendy isn’t most players. Whilst the Frenchman may not have the delightful flair of his Brazilian predecessor, he more than makes up for it with a defensive solidarity and intelligence that Madrid sometimes lacked in the Marcelo era.

One of the fastest left backs in Europe, and brilliant at reading the game, Mendy dominates one on ones, and is very rarely beaten by opponents.

Though injury struggles have limited his minutes, when on the pitch he has been instrumental in Real’s two league titles in the past 4 seasons, as well as their recent Champions League triumph. His well-rounded skill set means he often goes under the radar, but there is no doubting he is one of the most complete left backs in the world.

Main weakness: Defensively formidable, Mendy’s main weakness lies with his crossing ability, which will need to be improved for him to climb this list further.

Andrew Robertson

Andrew Robertson- crossing machine (source: Imago)

196 crosses in the Premier League 2022/23 season (98th percentile)

Despite a poor season for Liverpool last season (he wasn’t alone), Robertson remains perhaps the most complete left back on this list.

Capable of marauding runs up and down the left flank, tracking back to help teammates against counters, and whipping in crosses for the likes of Mo Salah to feast on, Robertson remains one of the world’s best left backs.

Perfectly fitting Klopp’s gegenpressing system with his Duracell Bunny stamina and work rate, the Scotsman has been a mainstay in the side since his transfer from Hull in 2017.

It is his consistency and well-roundedness that once made him the best left back in the world, and helped him to win numerous major honours.

Robertson is rarely injured, leaves everything on the pitch, and is considered a fan favourite for his work ethic, willingness to play the role asked of him, and his strengths with both attacking and defending. If he can capture his form from a few years ago, could he increase Britain’s list of 6 Ballon d’Or winners to 7? It feels unlikely, but you never know.

Main weakness: Robertson’s main weakness is that he can sometimes overindulge in mind games or winding up opposition players, which can be a distraction to his game.

Theo Hernandez

Theo Hernandez- attacking threat (source: Imago)

Cross completion rate of 34.07% (97th percentile)

Hernandez has been one of the stand out left backs in Serie A since his move to AC Milan in 2019. He registered 5 goals and 6 assists in the 2021/22 season, as Milan romped to their 19th Italian league title.

The Frenchman is one of the best left backs in the world, and arguably the best dribbler of all the names on this list. Skilled on the ball, and intelligent off it, and as one of the world’s fastest footballers, there is very little Hernandez is not capable of.

Standing at 6’0 tall, he has a physicality often associated with central defenders, and this makes him very difficult to compete against physically.

His link up play with Rafael Leao has become one of the most feared across Europe, and his performances in Milan’s run to the Champions League semi finals last season have cemented his reputation as one of the best left backs in the world in 2023.

Main weakness: Hernandez possesses very little by way of weaknesses, but perhaps the main one is his anticipation, leading him to lose a fair number of ground duels, and miss a decent number of interceptions.

Alphonso Davies

Alphonso Davies- dominates his winger (source: Imago)

Won 140 ground duels in 2022/23 season (85th percentile)

With his stark rise to the top halted by injury (and COVID complications), Davies seems like he’s back to his best, and ready to reclaim the mantle of world’s best left back.

Nicknamed ‘Roadrunner,’ the Canadian is certainly the fastest left back on this list, clocking an eye-watering 2020 top speed of 22.6 mph. Amazingly, the 22-year-old is actually deployed as a winger for his country, but he’s so good he can play either role perfectly.

With very few weaknesses, and feared for his dribbling ability, creativity, recovery pace, and dominance in one-on-one situations, Davies stands out statistically in almost every category.

At such a young age, there is a chance he could add his name to the list of 10 youngest Ballon d’Or winners, especially if Bayern can scoop another Champions League.

Main weakness: He has very few faults, but his biggest weakness is that his enthusiasm offensively can lead to defensive frailties, especially being vulnerable to blindside positions and runs in behind.

Legendary Left Backs Who Defined the Role

So who are the best left backs of all time? Well, this is perhaps an even trickier factor to determine than examining who is the best of the modern age.

Comparing different eras in football is always a slippery slope, as the game has changed so much. But we decided it would be remiss not to come up with a few names.

So, with that in mind, check out three iconic left backs who defined the role, and any one of them could be named the best left back of all time.

Denis Irwin

Denis Irwin- one of the earliest “unicorn” players who excelled in more or less every area (source: Imago)

Regarded by Sir Alex Ferguson as pound-for-pound his greatest ever signing, Denis Irwin set the standard for the modern Premier League left back. The man who could do everything; tackle, sprint, pass, score goals, create chances, great at set pieces, very rarely injured, and with a good personality.

Irwin was one of the earliest “unicorn” players who excelled in more or less every area.

Roberto Carlos

Roberto Carlos- left foot to be feared from in free kicks (source: Imago)

Bringing that bewitching, dynamic Brazilian verve to a typically unglamorous role, Roberto Carlos was one of the earliest stand-out examples of an attacking left back.

Carlos was unique in his position as he spent little time concerning himself with defending, and instead using his offensive brain, set piece guile, and natural athleticism to become one of the most feared left backs in the sport.

Paolo Maldini

Paolo Maldini- composed Captain on the pitch (source: Imago)

No list exploring the best left back of all time would be complete without including Il Capitano. The Milan legend is the benchmark against whom all other left backs are measured.

Maldini played his entire 25-year career at Milan, winning 26 trophies, and racked up 126 caps for Italy in the process. Known for his technical ability, athleticism, mental fortitude, and iconic slide tackles, Maldini was so good he also become a legendary centre back as well.

In Conclusion

The left back role has evolved so much over the years that it has become a fascinating role to study. As you can see, there are a lot of players to admire on my list, and many of them will be regarded as the world’s best left back at some stage.

As the position continues to become more fluid, and the skill sets needed to play the role expand, the list of truly elite left backs becomes smaller.

This is a role that all football fans should pay attention to over the coming years, as the evolution of the modern left back should be a fascinating journey.