Top five greatest right-backs in football history

The role of the right-back has undergone dramatic transformation over the years, evolving from a primarily defensive role alongside the right center-half to a crucial source of creativity in a modern-day team. Every genuinely successful team in the history of the sport has possessed a formidable defense. The art of defending has undergone remarkable evolution alongside the development of the game. It has evolved and shaped itself to guarantee that the balance of the beautiful game remains undisturbed.

Numerous exceptional players who have graced the football field have consistently positioned themselves along the right touchline, fiercely protecting their goalkeeper and undertaking the arduous tasks that others were unable to handle. Leading by example, the greatest right-backs in history have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills both on and off the field. However, these five players have established themselves as some of the greatest in the history of the game thanks to some genuinely remarkable and career-defining moments.

In this article, let’s look at the top five greatest right-backs in football history.

5. Lilian Thuram

Thuram was regarded as one of the finest professionals in the industry. The Frenchman is a classic 90’s defender from Serie A, renowned for his remarkable performances with Parma before moving to Juventus. During his reign over the right flank, there were few who could match him in terms of physicality, tactical acumen, and technical skill. His powerful play and calm head made him a formidable opponent to face, rarely getting beaten one-on-one. He adhered to traditional methods yet excelled in his defensive responsibilities, establishing himself as one of the finest players in that position.

4. Carlos Alberto

Carlos Alberto served as the captain of the Brazil team that triumphed in the World Cup. He was recognized for his exceptional technical skills in addition to his steadfast defensive capabilities. He represented several prominent clubs in Brazil, including Fluminense, Santos, and Flamengo. He had an excellent eye for pass, be it short or long, he was a creator from deep, which was far from ordinary at that time.

3. Philipp Lahm

Lahm stands out as one of the most adaptable players on this roster, capable of performing effectively as a right-back, left-back, or holding midfielder. This versatility made him an invaluable asset in the consistently triumphant Bayern Munich team. His composure with the ball was complemented by his ability to anticipate the game, effortlessly intercepting the ball from aggressive attackers. The German legend was known for his formidable tackling skills. He guided the German National Team to victory in the 2014 World Cup, where they triumphed over Argentina with a score of 1-0. Throughout his career, he secured a total of 23 titles.

2. Dani Alves

Alves is widely recognized as one of the most decorated players in the history of the sport. From his beginnings with Silverware in Brazil to achieving league and Cup titles across Spain, France, and Italy. He secured two Copa America titles for Brazil in the years 2007 and 2019. He played for clubs like Barcelona, Juventus, PSG and Sevilla FC. However, his reputation has suffered significantly following the charges of sexual assault brought against him, which resulted in a prison sentence in 2024.

1. Cafu

Cafu epitomized elegance, dynamism, and grace, standing out as the finest player of his time. Cafu has achieved international success by winning two World Cups and holds the record for the most appearances for the Brazilian national team, with a total of 143 caps. The Brazilian successfully elevated the right-back position to a fashionable status, showcasing that one can exhibit both technical skills and a repertoire of tricks, even when not positioned in the opponent's final third. He represented clubs like AS Roma and AC Milan.

Cover Credits - FIFA Official